We all want our kids to have the brains of Einstein, the coordination of Michael Jordan and the grace of a prima ballerina, but just because your baby reaches a milestone ahead of schedule doesn't mean he's headed for greatness. (If he's a little slower getting there, that's usually no biggie either.) Tracking milestones can be helpful in gauging appropriate playtime, providing a safe environment and exposing potential problems. Here's how to monitor your baby's progress:

What is a baby milestone?

Baby milestones are developmental stages that happen in all healthy children without having to be taught. They involve a range of skills including: communication, language, social, plus large and fine motor skills. Achieving a milestone a few weeks late is completely normal, but if your child misses a milestone by a month, you should see a pediatrician. Chances are nothing is wrong but, in rare cases, missed milestones can help you recognize developmental problems that benefit from early diagnosis.

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• Why tracking baby milestones is important >