Health Sources & Methodology
Last updated: 19 July 2026
When we say FirstSteps is evidence informed, this is what we mean. Our tracking ranges and educational content are built on widely recognised paediatric and public health standards. FirstSteps organises and explains this information; it does not diagnose, and it never replaces your child’s healthcare professional.
Growth and percentiles
Growth tracking and percentile ranges draw on the World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards and growth reference data. Where a country uses its own national growth charts, a professional’s local reference takes precedence.
Developmental milestones
Milestone ranges and developmental domains draw on guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), along with commonly used developmental frameworks. Milestones are presented as typical ranges, because every child develops at their own pace.
Sleep
Sleep duration ranges reflect the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Sleep Foundation for each age band.
Immunisation
Vaccine reminders are based on published national immunisation schedules, such as those from the CDC and the WHO. Schedules differ by country, so we align to your region where possible, and your clinic’s schedule is always the authority.
Nutrition and feeding
Feeding and introduction-of-solids guidance draws on WHO and AAP infant and young child feeding recommendations.
Awareness features
Early awareness and attention features are designed to raise gentle awareness and prompt a conversation with a professional. They are not screening tools and never provide a diagnosis. Any concern should be discussed with a qualified clinician.
AI-generated guidance
Our Lumi coach and summaries are generated by artificial intelligence and are educational only. AI can be helpful but may sometimes be inaccurate or incomplete, so please treat its suggestions as a starting point, not medical advice. See our Terms for more.
Keeping content current
Standards evolve. We review our reference ranges and content periodically. If you spot something that looks out of date, please tell us at info@firststepsco.com.