At what age can infants typically start smiling socially?

Infants typically start smiling socially around 2 months of age. This developmental milestone reflects their growing social engagement and the ability to interact meaningfully with caregivers and other individuals in their environment. The social smile indicates that the infant is beginning to recognize and respond to the people around them, which is a crucial step in emotional and social development.

Around this age, smiling becomes more than just a reflex; it’s an intentional action meant to elicit interaction and joy from others. As infants develop further, their ability to express emotions and connect with others continues to evolve, but the social smile at 2 months is a significant marker of their early social development.