Age-Appropriate Milestones for Ages 12-18 Months
Introduction
There will be a lot of changes in your child by the time they are 12 to 18 months old, which indicate that they are transitioning from a baby to a toddler. Numerous important developmental milestones that prepare the path for future learning and independence are present during this stage of development. Parents and other caregivers can better support and encourage their children by having a clear understanding of these stages.
Flexibility and Motion
Most children begin to walk on their own by 12 months of age, however some may need a few more months. Their increased mobility marks a significant advancement in their physical growth. Your youngster will start to walk more confidently, with improved form, and may even try running. Climbing stairs or furniture could also turn into a favorite pastime.
Fine Motor Capabilities
During this time, fine motor skills continue to develop quickly. Your child will begin to develop the pincer grasp, which is the ability to pick up small things between the thumb and forefinger. They take this ability and then will try to start writing! They’ll adore doing things like coloring with crayons, building with bricks, and turning pages in books.
Spoken Word and Hearing
It’s a fascinating moment to be developing language skills. You’ll witness your child’s vocabulary expanding quickly and hear their first words. Many toddlers can speak roughly 20 words by the time they are 18 months old. Additionally, they begin to comprehend basic directions and are able to identify body parts when asked. Regular reading and conversation with them will help them develop their language skills.
Development of the Social and Emotional
Along with becoming more independent, your toddler could start to feel anxious when they are alone. They begin to engage in parallel play, when they play with other kids and express preferences for particular objects and players. A wider range of emotional responses emerges, including laughing, tantrums, and tenderness.
Cognitive Growth
At this age, problem-solving abilities are still developing. Toddlers want to explore and discover how things operate. They might become interested in straightforward toys or puzzles that require sorting shapes or colors. They also begin to grasp the idea of saying “no” at this point, though actually following it is a different story!
Encourage Your Toddler to Reach New Heights
Establish a Safe Environment: Make sure your house is childproofed as your toddler gains greater mobility. They can explore without constant limitations thanks to this safety precaution.
Promote Exploration: Stock up on toys and activities that are age-appropriate to promote learning and physical growth.
Talk and Listen: Even if your child’s language skills are still growing, have conversations with them. Their linguistic growth depends on this interaction.
Consistency and Routine: Toddlers benefit greatly from routine. A regular routine for meals, naps, and sleep contributes to a child’s sense of security.
Positive Reinforcement: Give them support and praise for any accomplishment, no matter how tiny.
When to Get Assistance
Even if each child develops at their own rate, there are several indicators that can call for a professional assessment. It’s crucial to speak with a pediatrician if your child is not walking, babbles little or not at all, doesn’t seem interested in interacting with others, or if you have any other developmental concerns.
Voyager Home Health Care: Your Resource for Caring Treatment
We at Voyager Home Health Care are aware of the particular difficulties that families with children who have special needs or disabilities encounter. That’s why, rather than depending on outside healthcare providers, we offer programs that allow eligible family members to receive compensation for taking care of their loved ones. With this method, you can be sure that your child is receiving care in the most loving and cozy setting possible—their own home.
Voyager Home Health Care is available to support you whether your child is meeting standard developmental milestones or needs specialized care because of a medical condition or disability. Our initiatives in Colorado and Arizona are made to offer all-encompassing support, customized to meet the specific requirements of every family. We support strengthening the ties that bind families together and giving parents and other caregivers the means to deliver the best care possible. Text or call 719-400-2222 for more information!
