Which developmental milestone is likely achieved before a child's first birthday?

Achieving the ability to reach for nearby objects is a significant developmental milestone that typically occurs before a child's first birthday. This skill is part of the larger framework of motor development, where infants start to gain control over their arm and hand movements. By about 4 to 6 months, most infants begin to display this ability as they actively engage with their environment, exploring and interacting with toys or objects within their reach. Reaching is foundational for further development, leading to grasping and eventually manipulating objects, which are crucial for cognitive and motor skill development.

In contrast, sitting without support usually develops around 6 to 8 months, walking independently often occurs closer to 12 months or beyond, and talking in simple sentences generally emerges after the first year, around 18 months to 2 years of age. Therefore, reaching for nearby objects is the earliest milestone among the options provided, making it the most appropriate choice for achievement prior to a child's first birthday.