Social & Emotional
Social Smile
Typical age: 2 months
A social smile is one of the earliest social milestones — a genuine smile in response to your face or voice. Unlike reflexive newborn smiles, social smiles show that your baby is beginning to recognize and respond to the people around them.
Signs to Look For
- ✓Smiles at you or another caregiver spontaneously
- ✓Smiles in response to your voice or facial expressions
- ✓Eyes brighten and mouth opens when they see familiar faces
- ✓May coo along with the smile
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
Every child develops at their own pace. However, talk to your doctor if you notice:
- •No social smiling by 3 months
- •Doesn't make eye contact during feeding or play
- •Shows no interest in faces
Based on CDC developmental milestones. This is informational only — not medical advice. Every child develops differently. Consult your pediatrician with any concerns.