At what age do infants typically begin to smile socially?

Infants typically begin to smile socially around 6 to 8 weeks of age. This marks an important developmental milestone as it reflects the infant's growing social awareness and ability to engage with caregivers. Prior to this age, any smiling that occurs is often reflexive rather than a response to social interaction. Social smiling at this stage is significant because it is a way for infants to communicate and connect with others, signaling happiness and forming early emotional bonds. This developmental behavior is closely associated with the maturation of the infant's visual and neurological systems, which enhance their ability to recognize and react to the faces and voices of their caregivers. The timing of this social smile can vary slightly from child to child, but it generally falls within this timeframe, making 6 to 8 weeks the most accurate choice.