Cognitive
Understanding Cause and Effect
Typical age: 10 months
Around 10 months, babies begin to understand that their actions produce specific results. Pressing a button makes music play, dropping food makes it fall — this cause-and-effect understanding is foundational for problem-solving.
Signs to Look For
- ✓Intentionally drops objects to watch them fall
- ✓Presses buttons on toys to see what happens
- ✓Pulls a string to get a toy closer
- ✓Repeats actions that get a reaction from caregivers
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
Every child develops at their own pace. However, talk to your doctor if you notice:
- •Shows no interest in how toys work by 12 months
- •Doesn't experiment with objects
- •Doesn't look at you for a reaction after doing something
Based on CDC developmental milestones. This is informational only — not medical advice. Every child develops differently. Consult your pediatrician with any concerns.