5 important milestones in the first year of a baby's life

Baby's first year is important and precious in a lot of ways. Eager parents and family always have their cameras ready to capture the moments when they first turn their heads around, sit up on their own for the first time or simply learn to clap their hands.
The first year is also important because it marks a lot of development landmarks in your newborn's life.While there are many milestones to count, the most important ones are these:
When they begin to read lips or babble
Even before they start to murmur or babble a little, babies start to read lips at about 6 months. Around this time, their tiny brains try to understand the speech sounds you make in front of them and try to imitate the same. Studies even suggest that babies can lip read even before they learn to speak!
When they sleep through the night
It's strugglesome for new parents to get proper sleep in the first year. But, when your baby sleeps through the entire night for the first time, it feels like a blessing. This will happen around the 4-month benchmark, when the baby will be able to sleep for 6-8 hours at a stretch without feedings.
When they smile for the first time
Seeing a baby smile or even catching a glimpse of it can make anyone's day. Typically, between 2 and 3 months old, babies flash out their first smile. You can also spot them smiling a little in the first month, but that's usually a reflex smile, which happens randomly.
When they are able to wave
Watching your little one wave at you is another baby milestone which you want to cherish. With a little help and coaching from you, your baby can start waving at around 8-9 months of age. Waving or holding up his or her own hand is also a sign of good motor skills so by all means, you should be celebrating this.
When they start to walk
Just as they realise that they are able to hold up their head or stand by themselves, they also try to walk around with a little support at around 9-12 months of age. Encourage them to move around by playing with them on the floor, calling them towards you. With a little practice, they will be able to master the art of walking!