Sampler

Preview of the milestones covered by 56 Signs

Each milestone has three key features: a name, an illustration, and a written description.

You’ll see that the:

  • names are descriptive and use everyday words;

  • drawings highlight key actions and postures; and

  • text details those defining actions and postures.

Together these features of 56 Signs will be very helpful as you follow a baby’s progress.  

While watching the baby, consider a specific milestone.  Then ask yourself if you are seeing the features communicated by its name, drawing, and text. 

If all those features are present, your conclusion is clear: baby has reached a new milestone!  A reason to celebrate.

Some features missing?  Baby hasn’t quite reached the milestone.  Continue to pay close attention in the following days.  That milestone is probably quite close. 

Following are 5 milestones from 56 Signs.  Note their informative titles, illustration quality, and description readability.

Looking-Up Back Lying


While lying on back with head to side and feet touching surface, turns face up so nose is in line with center of chest for at least 3 secs. May move arms and legs.

3-Second Head Lift

While lying face down, Baby has weight mostly on chest and forearms. Bent elbows are held against sides and are used to prop up shoulders. Looking straight forward, Baby raises head partially for count of 3.

Super Hero

While lying on tummy, Baby lifts head up and raises legs or arms up off the surface.  May rock back and forth or from side to side, but there is no forward movement.  Both arms and legs may be raised at the same time.

Stable Sit

While seated on buttocks, Baby maintains a wide base of support with legs.  Shoulders are over hips, and arms can be moved away from body.  Baby can hold and manipulate a small toy and be left alone.  Sits up straight with head erect for at least 10 seconds.

Half-Kneel with Hands Down

From a hands-and-knees position, Baby moves one knee up and forward to plant the foot on the floor.  Weight is then supported on two hands, one knee, and one foot. Baby may rock or scoot forward in this position.


To see all 56 milestones, get the full 56 Signs Card Deck.  It has additional features and formatting that makes baby milestone monitoring and recording easy.