A social smile is a smile a baby gives on purpose in response to a face or voice. The CDC lists smiling when you talk to or smile at them as a milestone by 2 months.
Key takeaways
- Newborn smiles during sleep are reflexes, not social smiles.
- Social smiles show your baby recognises and enjoys interaction.
- Smiling back strengthens your bond.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your baby is not smiling at people by about 3 months, or does not seem to look at faces.
