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When do babies smile?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Smiles when you talk to or smile at her” by 2 months, and “Smiles on his own to get your attention” by 4 months. Most babies (75% or more) do these by those ages, and many smile sooner. If your baby isn't smiling back at you by 2 months, mention it to your pediatrician.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
2 monthsSmiles when you talk to or smile at herYour baby at 2 months
4 monthsSmiles on his own to get your attentionYour baby at 4 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (2 months, 4 months), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 2 months” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 2 months” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

First a smile back when you smile and talk. Later, a smile your baby starts, to get you to look at them.

What helps

  • Get face to face when your baby is awake and calm, smile, say their name and wait. Give them time to answer.
  • Make a big, happy face when they smile, and smile back. That turn-taking is the game.
  • Talk in a sing-song voice during diaper changes and feeds, with your face close.

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your baby isn't doing this by 2 months, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources