Short, age-aware guides with sources you can check. For concerns about your child's health or development, speak with their pediatrician.
Newborn–12 months · SleepHow can I make my baby's sleep space safer?
Place your baby on their back for every sleep on a firm, flat surface in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard. Use a fitted sheet and keep pillows, loose blankets, bumpers, and toys out of the sleep space.
When your baby falls asleep in a seat, swing, or carrier, move them to a safe sleep surface as soon as practical. Soothing while you hold your baby is different from positioning them for sleep.
AAP safe sleep guidance ↗Explore newborn guides →
Around 6 months · FeedingWhen is my baby ready to start solids?
Most babies start around 6 months, when they can sit with support, control their head and neck, and show interest in food. Breast milk or formula remains an important source of nutrition while new foods are introduced.
Offer foods in an age-appropriate texture while your baby is seated and supervised. Introduce common allergens along with other foods; ask your child's clinician about a plan if they have severe eczema, a known food allergy, or another concern.
CDC starting solids guidance ↗Explore infant guides →
2–36 months · DevelopmentWhich milestones should I watch for?
Use the CDC's age-specific checklists to notice how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, and moves. Milestones are conversation starters, not a diagnosis or a race between children.
If your child loses a skill, misses milestones, or you have a concern, share it promptly with their pediatrician and ask about developmental screening. You do not need to wait for the next routine visit.
CDC milestone checklists ↗Explore the free tracker →
1–3 years · BehaviorWhat can I do during a toddler tantrum?
First make the space safe and take a breath. Use a calm voice and simple words. Hold a clear boundary while acknowledging the feeling: “You're upset. I won't let you hit.” Once your child settles, reconnect and practice what they can do next time.
Notice common triggers such as hunger, tiredness, and transitions. If behavior is intense or you are worried about safety, talk with your child's pediatrician.
AAP tantrum tips ↗Explore toddler guides →
Birth–3 years · Play & mediaHow do I make room for less screen time?
Choose one small change: turn off autoplay, put devices away at meals, or build a screen-free bedtime routine. Replace that time with a repeatable activity such as books, songs, blocks, or outdoor play.
Babies learn through interaction. The AAP's age-based media guidance helps families decide what fits their child and make a realistic plan together.
AAP age-based media guidance ↗Explore play guides →
1–3 years · Everyday routinesHow can I make meals less stressful?
Offer regular meals and snacks with a mix of familiar and new foods. Let your toddler practice feeding themselves and stop when they are full. Repeated exposure can help; pressure and food battles usually make meals harder.
Include different food groups over time and ask a clinician about weight, swallowing, allergy, or growth concerns.
CDC toddler parenting tips ↗Explore planners →
