Developmental Milestones for a Child Aged 12 to 17 Months

Here is everything you need to know about the growth and progress of your child during this crucial period of their lives. Explore the essential developmental milestones for a child aged 12 to 17 months.

Attaches Himself To Lovey

Although not every young child will have or use a “lovey,” many may establish a strong attachment to a particular stuffed animal or blanket. Why? Because these goods provide a sense of reassuring security. In addition, they can help with temper tantrums, which is a win-win for parents during this transitional period.

Begins to Demonstrate Right- or Left-Hand Dominance

Place your child’s spoon on their high-chair tray and see whether they consistently use the same hand to pick it up. Many youngsters begin to favor one hand over the other at this age.

Likes to Play Games

Even the most basic game of hide-and-seek might make your child squeal with excitement. Children develop a fondness for play at or about one year of age. Additionally, playing games together is a terrific way to strengthen relationships. It is nutritious for both you and your toddler.

Has Mastered Two Words

By the baby’s first birthday, he or she has usually mastered a few words, such as ball, bye, and perhaps even Mommy or Daddy. Continue conversing with your child and observe their vocabulary expand!

Admires Their Replica

Reflect, reflect, on the wall Your infant is the most beautiful of all! A mirror that is safe for infants is an excellent toy for this age; they will be charmed by their reflection.

Adapts to an Object and Can Pick It Up

Observe the next time your child drops a toy to see if they retrieve it. They may now be able to pick up objects while bending over safely.

Complies with Basic Instructions

Between 12 and 18 months, your youngster will learn to adhere to basic directions. Play a few rounds of Simon Says with your child to improve their listening and responsiveness.

Consumes with the Fingers

Your child’s small hands and lack of coordination make it difficult for them to use utensils, but they are striving for independence and want to feed themselves. Your toddler’s normal and healthy growth is to eat with their fingers.

Has A Shorter Span Of Attention

These days, your energetic toddler may be less fascinated with their toys and more distracted when you read to them. It is not a product of your imagination. Their ability to focus is diminished.

Indicates Objects

Young children may not know all the words, but they may communicate using gestures. As it is an effective method of communication, toddlers frequently point at what they desire. You can encourage this behavior by requesting your child show you their ears, nose, and other objects.

Rises from a Sitting Arrangement

Your child may be a terrific gentleman these days! Literally. Place them in the middle of the room and observe their behavior. They can probably rise to their feet from a seated position on their own.

Grabs Small Objects

Your child has probably mastered the pincer grasp by now, which is an excellent ability for picking up pieces of finger food. Encourage this behavior by requesting that your child pick up blocks, toys, and other household items.

Scribbling

These crayon traces are so much more than basic scribbles. As long as it’s not on their bedroom wall, scribbling is an excellent skill for a child to develop.

Chews Greater Bits of Food

While it’s still too early to ask your child how they enjoy their steak, you may have observed that they can now chew larger chunks of food, expanding their culinary preferences.

Adheres to Directions

Part of maturing understands how to follow instructions from parents, instructors, and others. As your youngster learns this vital skill, provide them with some enjoyable practice instructions.

Loves Helping

Occasionally, toddlers are the finest assistants! Your child may like sorting socks, placing toys in baskets, and/or cleaning messes alongside you.

Starts Running

It is time to quicken our speed! Now that your child is walking less and running more, you will need to move faster to keep up with them. (But don’t worry if your toddler isn’t running just yet; it takes some children longer to gain their footing!)

Considers What They Diet

Toddlers are notoriously picky eaters. Previously, your infant may have devoured various foods, but now they request only a few specific items at mealtime. Be calm and patient, and realize that this behavior is typical.

Climbs Everything

Your child has been scaling everything in sight, right? If your child is a natural climber, you could feel like you’re raising a mountain goat instead of a toddler!

Enjoys Having Fun With Friends

At this age, toddlers can play with other children, a period known as “parallel play.” They are close to other friends and may be participating in the same activity, but they rarely engage in turn-taking or sharing.

Classes Toys

As your child reaches developmental milestones for a child aged 12 to 17 months, they will start recognizing more forms, sizes, and colors, making it the perfect time to introduce sorting games. These activities aid in the development of cognition and fine motor skills, fostering further growth and progress.

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