This article describes the skills and growth targets of 2 month-old infants.

Physical and motor-skill markers:

• Closure of posterior fontanelle (soft spot at the back of the head)
• Several newborn reflexes, such as the dance reflex (baby appears to dance or step when placed upright on solid surface)and grasp reflex (grasping a finger), disappear
• Less head lag
• When on stomach, able to lift head almost 45 degrees
• Less flexing of the arms and legs while on stomach

Sensory and cognitive markers:

• Head turns from side to side with sound at the level of the ear
• Beginning to look at close objects
• Crying becomes differentiated
• Coos
• Vocal response to familiar voices
• Smiles

Play recommendations:

• Toys and objects should be bright colors
• The room should be bright with pictures and mirrors
• Expose the baby to sounds outside those of the home
• Take the baby for rides in the car