Toddler Development: Your Stubborn and Capable 25 to 30 Month Old

Toddlers have a reputation for being stubborn, independent, defiant and frustrating—in addition to being to being painfully cute, of course. And for good reason! At this age, your child is going through tremendous cognitive growth. They’re realizing they’re an individual who can make an impact on their environment—and all that curiosity can lead to magical discoveries. (As well as a little mischief!)

Your 25-month-old will start to play pretend, stand on their tiptoes, blow you a kiss, and find new ways to surprise you each and every day!

Toddler Development: Your Toddler From 25 to 30 months

Vocabulary Development

Your 25-month-old can probably say simple phrases and two- to four-word sentences, and they may know as many as 100 words already!(1) Pay close attention to what you’re saying because at this age, your toddler is bound to repeat everything they hear.(1)

Your toddler can probably name up to five different objects like a ball or a car and name familiar pictures, (2) making reading time together even more fun. They can also follow short directions(2) like, “Give me the cup.”(3)

Continue to read to your toddler and have conversations with them throughout the day to encourage their vocabulary development.

Potty Training

Some children are ready to begin potty training around this age.(1) But you don’t want to rush it—potty training is a major milestone. Certain physical, developmental and behavioral milestones need to be reached before it’s possible for your toddler, and some children don’t learn until they’re closer to three.(6) If you try to potty train your child too early, it may end up taking even longer!(6)

Teething and Brushing

Your toddler’s two-year molars may be coming in sometime between 20 and 33 months.(1) They’re big ones—so this can be painful. Luckily, they’re the last teeth to come in until your child is around six years old.(1)

It can be hard to get a toddler to brush their teeth—but that doesn’t mean you should stop trying! It’s so important to establish good oral hygiene habits when your child is young.

Try some of these tips to make teeth brushing more fun for your toddler!(7)

• Let your child pretend brush her favorite doll, stuffed animal, or action figure’s teeth while you brush her teeth.

• Brush your toddler’s teeth and then let her take a turn brushing her own teeth (or vice versa).

• Play a favorite song and let your child know when the song is over, it’s time to rinse.

• Let your toddler pick out her own toothbrush

 

Toddler Development: Milestones From 25 to 30 Months

Social/Emotional Checklist(4)

• Follows simple routines when instructed

• Says “look!” to show you something he can do

• Engages in parallel play

 

Language/Communication Checklist

• Can say about 50 words(4)

• Can say words like, “me,” “we,” and “I”(4)

• Uses action words in short, two-word phrases like “Kitty jump”(4)

• Can name known objects in a book when you point and ask what it is(4)

• Begins to speak clearly(5)

Movement and Physical Development Checklist(4)

• Can twist or turn things with their hands

• Jumps up off the ground with two feet

• Removes some clothing by himself

• Turns book pages

• Can throw a ball(5)

• Can build a six-block tower(5)

Cognitive Checklist(4)

• Plays pretend like “feeding” a doll a block as though it was food

• Follows simple instructions

• Shows simple problem-solving abilities

• Knows at least one color and can point to it when you ask

 

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 25- to 30-Month-Old

Allow Them to Make Small Choices

Support your toddler’s assertion of their independence by allowing them to make small choices throughout the day.(1) Let your toddler select their own outfits, for example—even if it takes them twice as long to get dressed. Letting your toddler work through the awkward stages of developing a skill is so important. Instead of stepping in to speed up the process, let them fumble—it’s good practice and helps them learn.(8)

 

Continue to Set Limits

While it’s important to support your toddler’s exploration of independence, it’s still important to set limits so they know you’re the boss. Your toddler may insist on jumping on the couch or doing other unsafe activities in their desire to explore. Continue to set consistent limits that keep them safe.(1)

 

Take a Time-In

It’s pretty normal for toddlers to bite or hit when they’re frustrated. (I talk about this at length on my upcoming episode this month on toddler behavior of Genius Little Minds if you want to learn more.) Try taking a “time-in” when your child is overwhelmed and having a meltdown. It’s an opportunity for you to co-regulate (as opposed to a time-out where a child sits alone.)(9) To take a time-in, sit with your child somewhere quiet if possible, and offer comfort and reassurance that you understand their big emotions. Give language to their feelings. Take some deep breaths together.

Example: “You’re frustrated because you aren’t allowed to have cake today. I get frustrated sometimes, too. Instead of screaming when we are frustrated, let’s try taking a deep breath and counting to 5.”(9)

Once they’ve calmed down, talk about what could have been done differently.

Example: “Did you scream at mommy because you wanted cake? What could you have done instead?”(10)

 

Transition Slowly

Transitions can be tough. Even for adults! So transitioning from playing at the park to going home can be especially hard for your toddler. Give plenty of verbal warnings like, “In twenty minutes it will be time to leave the park and go home to make dinner.” Repeat yourself a few times—giving these types of warnings in 10 minutes and again in 5 minutes.

 

Every Stage Comes with Joys and Challenges

Each step of the way, you have the opportunity to help your child learn and grow. Subscribe to my newsletter for more helpful parenting tips, and don’t miss the other blogs in the infant and early childhood development series!

References

1. https://www.thebump.com/toddler-month-by-month/25-month-old

2. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/play_through_the_ages_ages_24_to_30_months

3. https://childdevelopment.com.au/areas-of-concern/understanding-language/following-instructions/

4. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-30mo.html

5. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a6471/milestone-chart-25-to-30-months

6. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/potty-training/art-20045230

7. https://hurstpediatricdentistry.com/2020/09/10/tips-for-brushing-baby-toddler-teeth/

8. https://www.fatherly.com/parenting/30-month-milestones

9. https://reachformontessori.com/time-in-vs-time-out-what-is-a-time-in/

10. https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/behaviour/behaviour-management-tips-tools/time-in-helping-toddlers-calm-down

Toddler Development: Independence, Exploration, and Tantrums, Oh My! Your Energetic 19 to 24 Month Old

Your baby is more than a year and a half old now, and boy does she have a lot to say! As your toddler’s vocabulary continues to grow, so does her confidence. You may find her testing limits, exerting her independence, and strutting her stuff everywhere she goes!

Between 19 and 24 months, you’ll notice your child is going through so many amazing changes. The chubby baby you know and love is growing up so fast! She’s gaining muscle, a more defined jawline, and getting both taller and leaner.

As she’s mastering skills like walking, running and climbing stairs, her personality is also developing. Soon it will become more obvious if you have a daredevil or more careful child on your hands. One thing’s for sure–your toddler will keep you on your toes as she engages in pretend play, feels big emotions, and continues exploring the wide world.

Toddler Development: Your Toddler From 19 to 24 months

Exciting New Movements

Toddlers have so much energy–and by now you’re probably used to chasing after them! As your toddler gets more confident walking, he’ll use his hands less and less for balance and even break into a run at times!(1) When running, it can be hard for your toddler to stop or make turns, so he might take a tumble to the ground once in a while.(3) He may also discover he can stand on tiptoe to look for things out of reach.(4) Overtime, he’ll learn to kick a ball and throw one underarm.(11) Every tactile discovery feels exciting and new as he grows into his body each day!

Expanding Vocabulary

By 21 months, your toddler will be able to use around 50 words!(4) And by 24 months, they’ll be able to use two word phrases and simple pronouns like “me, my, you.”(4) They’ll start to pick up new words all the time, often echoing the words you say.(3) You may be singing “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” to teach your toddler anatomy. By 21 months they’ll be able to identify 3-5 body parts when asked.(4) Reading with your toddler may also become more fun as they more readily identify objects in their picture books.(4) But you also may find they want you to read the same story to them… over and over and over!(5) They know what they like and want to have it… all the time!

Tantrums are Normal

Your toddler is learning to regulate their emotions and communicate their needs and desires.(6) But it takes time to master these skills. When a young child is frustrated with herself and her limitations or is angry she can’t get her way, a tantrum is likely to ensue.(7) While they can be embarrassing for parents, tantrums are a normal part of toddler development. 

Toddler Development: Milestones From 19 to 24 months

While every child develops at their own pace, here are some things your child will likely do by the time they’re 24 months old:

Social/Emotional Checklist (2)

• Can tell when someone is upset or hurt. For example, pauses or looks sad when they see someone crying

• Turns to you to see how to respond in an unfamiliar situation

• Says “no”(3)

• Has trouble waiting for things and wants them right now(3)

• Engages mainly in parallel play, but begins showing an interest in including other children and playing together(8)

Language/Communication Checklist(2)

• Strings at least two words together to form a short sentence, like, “more please”

• Able to point to known objects or things when asked

• Uses gestures beyond just pointing or waving

• Can identify at least two body parts when asked

• Follows simple directions(8)

Movement and Physical Development Checklist(2)

• Can kick a ball

• Walks upstairs with or without help

• Runs (but stopping or turning can be difficult)(3)

• Can take a few steps backward(3)

• Uses a spoon to eat

• Opens cabinets, boxes, and drawers(3)

• Can stack 2 to 4 blocks(3)

Cognitive Checklist(2)

• Able to play with multiple toys at a time, like serving tea to a teddy bear

• Uses switches, buttons, and knobs on toys

• Can hold something in one hand while using the other (like when holding a cup and removing the lid)

• Says “please” and “thank you” when prompted(3)

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 19 to 24 Month Old

Encourage Pretend Play

Pretend play will emerge at this age, and it’s so fun to witness! Your toddler may pretend to cook a meal or sail the high seas in a cardboard ship. Make space for your child to play both near you—they gain the confidence to explore and try new things, knowing you’re close by—and with other children.(9) Sharing and taking turns will still be hard at this age—so don’t think you’re raising a selfish child!(9) Toddlers just tend to think everything is theirs and are reluctant to share.

Have Conversations and Respond in Full Sentences

Now that your toddler knows a handful of words, you can encourage conversation by listening and replying when they speak to you.(9) If your child says, “Mama, ball” you could reply by saying, “Would you like to play with your red ball?” By doing this, you’re exposing your child to more words, helping expand her vocabulary and giving context to her requests.

Encourage Problem Solving

Give your toddler space to learn and problem solve. Model curiosity and questioning when something doesn’t work out. For example, if your toddler is trying to put shapes in their corresponding holes and it’s not working out, you can ask, “Does the triangle have round edges?”(1)

Make Time for Skill Building

It can feel hard to let your toddler do things on their own when you know it would be faster if you did it for them. But stepping in can rob your child of the opportunity to learn and grow! Try to build time into your day to allow for your toddler to build everyday skills and develop their independence. Let them take off their own shoes or use a spoon to feed themselves. It may take longer, but you’re giving them the opportunity to engage their brain (as well as their large and small muscle groups).(9)

Model Emotional Regulation

Sometimes, your toddler will try to do something and they’ll fail. And tears will likely ensue. They’ll want to drive their toy truck under the bridge (coffee table) but the bridge is too low. And they’ll have a meltdown over it. Empathize with your toddler and their big feelings. Validate their frustration, be patient, and explain what they’re experiencing. You could say, “You’re feeling frustrated because the truck doesn’t fit under the table.” And give them an opportunity to choose again. “Would you like to drive the small car under the table instead?”

Every Stage Comes with Joys and Challenges

Each step of the way, you have the opportunity to help your child learn and grow. Subscribe to my newsletter for more helpful parenting tips, and don’t miss the other blogs in the infant and early childhood development series!

References

1. https://www.pampers.com/en-us/toddler/development/article/20-month-old

2. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-2yr.html

3. https://edn.ne.gov/cms/developmental-milestones-19-through-24-months

4. https://pathways.org/growth-development/19-24-months/milestones/

5. http://www.theparentline.org/infant-toddler-development/19-21-months/

6. https://www.thebump.com/toddler-month-by-month/19-month-old

7. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/tantrum/art-20047845

8. https://www.whattoexpect.com/milestones/19-24-months/

9. https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/development/development-tracker-1-3-years/18-24-months

10. https://www.parentingforbrain.com/self-regulation-toddler-temper-tantrums/

11. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a6472/milestone-chart-19-to-24-months

Toddler Development: They're Getting into Everything! Your Curious 16 to 18 Month Old

Toddler Development: Your Toddler From 16 to 18 Months

Your little one sure is keeping you on your toes with all the walking, talking, climbing and playing at this age. And you may feel like you have a shadow everywhere you turn because your toddler can’t get enough of you and the exciting world around them!

Now that they’re mobile and on the go, their personality will start to shine. You may notice you have a chatty child or a quiet observer. Whatever you do or say, you’ll likely have a mini who wants to copy everything you do!

Developing Language Skills

By this time, most toddlers are saying at least three words, and some may even know up to fifteen.(1) Their language skills may still sound like gibberish—but you’ll learn to identify what they’re trying to say over time. And you’ll notice they’ll start to string two words together based on associations to form short sentences. If you go to a park, for example, you might hear your toddler say, “Play ball!” to express what they want to do.(1)

Constantly in Motion

You’ve probably noticed your toddler is always in motion! Now that he can walk without holding onto anyone or anything, the world is his oyster! Running, dancing, walking backwards, and climbing are ways your child may assert his independence and expend his energy.(2) If your child likes to climb on things, double-check your home’s childproofing systems to keep your active toddler safe.(2)

Discovering Independence

As your toddler develops language skills, you may find you have a bossy child on your hands! Hearing them say “no!” is common at this age as they are learning to assert their independence and preferences. (1) It may feel tiresome, and you may start to wonder if you have a tiny teenager on your hands! But small acts of defiance or rebellion are normal in toddlerhood.

Toddler Development: Milestones From 16 to 18 Months

While every child develops differently, there are a few milestones to look out for at this age.

Here are some things your child will likely do by the time they’re 18 months old:

Social/Emotional Checklist(3)

• Points at something interesting to show it to you

• Extends their hands for you to wash them

• Asserts independence but makes sure you’re still nearby

• Looks at short books with you, shows an interest in pictures(4)

• LIfts up a foot or puts an arm through a sleeve to get dressed

Language/Communication Checklist(3)

• Can say 3 or more words aside from “mama” or “dada”

• Understands up to 50 words(4)

• Points to familiar people or objects in pictures(4)

• Can follow simple, one-step directions (even if they’re not accompanied by a gesture)

• Repeats words they overhear in conversation(4)

• Shakes head yes/no in response to simple questions(4)

Movement and Physical Development Checklist(3)

• Scribbles with markers, pens, pencils, etc.

• Uses fingers to feed herself

• Uses a cup without a lid (spilling sometimes to be expected)

• Attempts to use a spoon

• Walks unassisted (and seldom falls)(4)

• Climbs on things without help (like a couch or chair)

• Can squat to pick up a toy(4)

Cognitive Checklist(3)

• Can play with simple toys (like pushing a toy truck)

• Will copy your actions (like sweeping with a toy broom as you clean)

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 16 to 18 Month Old


Encourage Play with Other Children

If you’re worried you’re raising a self-centered child who can’t share, don’t fret—thinking the world revolves around him is a normal part of your toddler’s development. It’s okay that he doesn’t quite understand the concept of empathy yet or know that people have feelings or thoughts that differ from his own. Let your toddler engage in parallel play, or the type of play that happens side by side with other children. Over time, he’ll acquire the skills to play well with other children his age. Offer toy options during playdates. Consider hiding favorite toys to minimize possessiveness that may inspire hitting or biting.(5)

Model Sharing (But Understand When They Don’t Want To)

Sharing probably won’t come naturally to your 18-month-old, and that’s okay. Try to model good behavior and demonstrate what sharing looks like. The concept of sharing will become easier as your child develops, but don’t rush it. Accept that parallel play is more developmentally appropriate for this age.(8) Your child probably won’t fully understand what sharing means until they’re 3 or 4 years old.(10)

Set and Enforce Boundaries (But Avoid Saying ‘No!”)

It’s natural for your toddler to want to get into everything. At this age, they’re curious about the wide world around them! But your number one priority is keeping your child safe. So even though he may object, boundaries are necessary in accomplishing that. You can narrate boundaries as you’re enforcing them. Try saying things like, “You want to be barefoot, but you need to wear sneakers at the playground.” Or, “You want to have dessert now, but your body needs a healthy dinner first.”(6) Reserve a strong “no!” for when your child is in danger or hurting others—hitting or biting another child, for example.(7) This will make it more likely that they listen to you than if you say “no” frequently.(7)

Continue to Narrate Your Day

You’re probably already used to narrating your day as a way to develop your child’s vocabulary. Keep it up! Your toddler understands a surprising amount of what you say. And the more language you expose him to, the more new words he learns! Research shows that children who are spoken to more often process and understand words at a faster rate than children who are spoken to less.(7) If you regularly point out dogs when you’re on a walk with your toddler, for example, it will be easier for him to learn the word “leash” when you say, “Look at the dog on the leash.” This is because some of the words are already familiar to him.(7)

Sing Together

Did you know rhyming songs like “Humpty Dumpty” actually have a purpose? Singing rhymes together or reciting simple poems can help your toddler understand that certain sounds, words, or letters go together. (5) What great preparation for learning to read! And if your child mispronounces a word, repeat the word with the correct pronunciation so they can hear it—and try pronouncing it—again.(7)

Do a Safety Check

18-month-olds are frequently on the move and curious about everything. Avoid toys with small parts or magnets as those pose serious hazards to children. Keep baby gates up. Teach your child how to safely get down the stairs when accompanied. Be cognizant that your child may be learning how to open doors or baby gates. If you have a pool, make sure your toddler can’t get to it to avoid a tragedy. Consider signing up your toddler for swimming lessons, too.(9) While not a substitute for adult supervision, it’s a great way to introduce water safety skills. It also encourages parents and children to have fun in the water together.(9)

Embrace Every Stage

Support your child through all stages of development! To read more blogs like this with helpful parenting tips, subscribe to my newsletter!

You can also check out the other blogs in the infant and early childhood development series for more information on how to help your child grow and learn at different stages.

References

1. https://www.scarymommy.com/your-16-18-month-old-toddler

2. https://www.thebump.com/toddler-month-by-month/16-month-old

3. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-18mo.html

4. https://pathways.org/growth-development/13-18-months/milestones/

5. https://www.pampers.com/en-us/toddler/development/article/16-month-old

6. https://centerforparentingeducation.org/library-of-articles/child-development/way-children/

7. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/18/parenting/milestones/your-18-month-old.html

8. http://www.theparentline.org/infant-toddler-development/16-18-months/

9. https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/16-month-old.aspx

10. https://www.greatkidsinc.org/sharing-is-caringand-a-developmental-milestone/

Infant Mental Health: What It Is and Why It's Important

When you think about managing mental health, what comes to mind? Perhaps you think of a therapy couch, box of tissues, and feeling loads better after getting some things off your chest.

Or maybe you’re a big believer in a bubble bath or a long run as a form of self-care.

Whatever your mental health management routine, it probably involves taking specific action to care for and nurture yourself. After all, your life is complex. You have a job, relationships and finances to manage, family obligations, and social events to attend.

And if you’re a parent, your life is even more complex because you have the lives of other people to manage as well!

Luckily, your infant’s social calendar is pretty empty, so you can’t imagine they have a lot to stress about. Aside from feeding, sleeping, and pooping, there’s not much on their agenda... So they can’t possibly have mental health that needs attending to, right?

Wrong!

Believe it or not, even your infant has mental health needs! Yes, even before your little one is babbling or crawling, walking or talking, their mental health is being shaped by the world around them—and their relationship with you.

Loving parent that you are, you’re doing everything you can to provide love, affection, and protection for your child.

So where do you start with their mental health needs? And what does infant mental health even mean?

What Is Infant Mental Health?

You can think of infant mental health as infant brain health.(1) Brain health is crucial to an infant’s development, and it all starts when the baby is still in the womb.

Previously it was thought that as long as pregnant women avoided harmful substances like drugs or alcohol and ate enough nutrients, they’d give birth to healthy babies.(2) But research shows that when the pregnant mother is stressed, the fetus is negatively impacted.

Risks of Prenatal Stress

Prenatal stress is associated with altered brain structure and function.(3) A child may be at an increased risk for developing ADHD or conduct disorder, having impaired cognitive development and emotional issues if a mom is stressed, depressed, or anxious during pregnancy.(3)

People stressed during pregnancy are more likely to deliver preterm or before 37 weeks.(4) Low birth weight is also associated with maternal stress during pregnancy(4) and complications can arise later for preterm babies, like chronic lung disease, learning disorders, or developmental delays. Babies who are stressed out in utero are also more likely to develop chronic health problems as adults, like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.(2)

Because prenatal stress can have a lasting impact on an infant’s health, neurocognitive development, and immune system functioning, it’s important you take care of yourself as best you can if you’re pregnant.(3) Work with your healthcare provider and social network to develop a plan to help you cope with the stresses of pregnancy.

The Impact of a Child’s Environment on Their Brain Development

Stable, nurturing, positive relationships with parents and adults help babies develop strong, healthy brains. So does stimulation, love and caring interaction.(5)

But the opposite is also true.

If a parent or caregiver is frequently absent or unable to regulate their baby, toxic stress can occur.

What Is Toxic Stress?

Toxic stress—or the prolonged activation of the body’s stress response—overloads a child’s developing systems. And it can have lifelong consequences for children.(6) Persistent negative experiences means fewer brain connections will form. And those that do will develop at a slower rate.(5)

A child’s environment helps determine which synapses are used more or less. For example, if a baby is talked to or read to often, their language development synapses are activated more often.(8) But if a baby and his family has to face severe, prolonged, or repetitive adversity, and the parent or caregiver is unable to relieve the child’s stress response, an abnormal stress response develops.(7)

The Effects of Toxic Stress on Child Development

The prolonged activation of stress hormones in infancy and early childhood can reduce neural connections when they should actually be multiplying.(6) Children who experience toxic stress in early childhood are more likely to develop long-term negative health problems that may not show up until adulthood. Poor coping skills and stress management capabilities, mental illness, and physical disease are all more likely for children who experience toxic stress.(7)

We can avoid toxic stress if the environments children are growing and developing in are stable, nurturing, and engaging.

Signs of Infant Mental Health Concerns

Raising an infant comes with challenges—there’s no doubt about that. And every parent does the best they can with the resources they have available to them. But sometimes, infants seem to struggle more than “normal.” And since infants aren’t able to communicate their needs with words, it’s important to look for signs that they may be struggling with their mental health.

Seeking support from an expert in infant and early childhood development can be helpful when challenges become chronic.

Here are some warning signs that your infant’s mental health may need some tending to:(10,11)

• They don’t want to be held

• They’re not comforted when they’re upset

• They avoid eye contact

• They have feeding and sleeping difficulties

• They cry persistently

• They’re restless

• They display distress, fear, anxiety, and/or tension

• They aren’t gaining weight

• They have intestinal disturbances

• They aren’t meeting developmental milestones

Understanding Infant Behavior and Development

Sometimes a parent or caregiver is unable to provide consistent, reliable care to an infant despite their best efforts. This may be due to their own mental illness, their own history of neglect or abuse, or a lack of social support, especially for single parents. Financial stress, relationship conflict, and alcohol or drug abuse can all contribute to a parent not being able to consistently meet their infant’s needs.(9)

Raising kids is hard work. There’s just no way around that. But there’s support available if you know where to look for it.

Consider the following tips to better understand your infant’s behavior and development:

Connect with an Infant Mental Health Specialist

There are actually professionals trained in newborn behavioral observation, which can be extremely helpful! Seek out an infant mental health consultation if you’re looking for insight into how to read your infant better, understand their cues, bond with them, and interact with them in ways that will encourage your relationship to thrive.(9)

Learn About Attachment Theory

An attachment is an emotional bond that forms between two people, and children seek closeness with their attachment figures to find safety and comfort. When an adult responds to an infant’s needs in an appropriate way, secure attachment becomes possible. Learn about the four attachment styles to understand your own way of relating to others and to know if your child is securely attached to you (or not).

Seek out Your own Mental Health Resources

Often times, the way we were raised impacts the way we raise our kids. It can be helpful to seek your own therapy to understand your family of origin and process any mental health blocks you may be facing that’s impacting your ability to be there effectively for your child. There’s never any shame in asking for help!

Interested in Learning More?

Check out this podcast episode on infant brain development. You’ll get a deeper look at the topics covered in this blog and much more! Tune in to get a basic overview of your baby’s brain—how it’s growing in and out of the womb and what makes them kick—plus dive into Piaget’s stages of cognitive development and how this theory can help you understand your infant better. You’ll also learn about how many neurons your baby’s brain has when they’re born—hint: it’s as many stars as there are in the Milky Way!

Equip yourself with knowledge and tools to help your child thrive. Subscribe here to the Genius Little Minds podcast so you never miss an episode!

References

1. Clinton, J., Feller, A. F., & Williams, R. C. (2016). The importance of infant mental health. Paediatrics & child health, 21(5), 239–241. https://doi.org/10.1093/pch/21.5.239

2. https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/fetal-stress

3. Glover, V. (2019). The effects of prenatal stress on child behavioural and cognitive outcomes start at the beginning. Encyclopedia on Early Childhood Development. https://www.child-encyclopedia.com/stress-and-pregnancy-prenatal-and-perinatal/according-experts/effects-prenatal-stress-child

4. (2019, October). Stress and pregnancy. March of Dimes. https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/stress-and-pregnancy.aspx

5. https://www.firstthingsfirst.org/early-childhood-matters/brain-development/

6. Toxic Stress Derails Healthy Development. (2011, September 29). [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=26&v=rVwFkcOZHJw&feature=emb_logo

7. Franke H. A. (2014). Toxic Stress: Effects, Prevention and Treatment. Children (Basel, Switzerland), 1(3), 390–402. https://doi.org/10.3390/children1030390

8. http://www.urbanchildinstitute.org/why-0-3/baby-and-brain

9. (2021, April). Styger, K., Zadroga, J. Infants have mental health needs, too. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/infants-have-mental-health-needs-too

10. Stapert, E. Infant mental health – what is it and why is it important? Manhattan Psychology Group. https://manhattanpsychologygroup.com/infant-mental-health-what-is-it-and-why-is-it-important/

Toddler Development: The Amazing Things Your 13 to 15 Month Old Can Do!

Toddler Development: Your Toddler From 13 to 15 Months

 
You made it through your baby’s first year! Way to go. Give yourself a pat on the back and kick up your feet.  

Don’t take a rest for too long, though — you have a toddler now, and they’ll surely keep you on your toes!

You’re probably eagerly awaiting the day when your child takes their first unsupported steps — so grab the camera because between 13 and 15 months, that milestone will likely be reached, as well as many others.

Walking

All children develop at their own pace, but with toddlerhood comes the exciting milestone of learning to walk! Many children take their first independent steps around 14 months.(1) Before a baby can walk, they need the coordination and muscle strength to pull themselves up to a standing position and then stay standing, either by holding onto furniture or a caregiver.(2) Babies will pull themselves up to stand about 2 to 4 months before they take their first unsupported steps.(2)

When learning to walk, your toddler might fall down a lot! And that’s okay. Perfecting their strut doesn’t happen all at once, so prepare for your baby to fall down or start and stop frequently as they’re learning.(3)

Talking

By this age, your toddler may be able to say two to four words.(6) And you may start hearing them over and over again! (Though it might be “ba” for ball, not the full word yet!) Your toddler will also make lots of babbling sounds and respond to their name. As she learns more and more words, your toddler will learn what it means when you say things like, “Where is your truck?” And then she’ll go look for it. Songs and rhymes will also continue to delight your toddler. And even though she may not know the word for something, if she wants it, she’ll point to it to ask for it.(6)

Personality Grows as Your Toddler Discovers Her Independence

With toddlerhood comes an emerging personality! So your toddler will likely be pretty vocal about their likes and dislikes — and you can expect some tantrums to emerge at this age. Toddlers experience frustration because they aren’t able to adequately communicate how they feel or what they want from adults.(8) You can imagine how frustrating that must be! So try to exercise patience and be compassionate toward your toddler.

Some more fun parts of your toddler’s personality will start to emerge as well, like a sense of humor. Your child may start to find lots of things really funny! So enjoy the ups and downs of the journey and find the humor where you can, too.

As your little angel grows, so will her independence and sense of self.(9) You may even find your toddler tries to help you dress her by holding out an arm or leg as you do so.(9)

Toddler Development: Milestones From 13 to 15 Months

While every child develops differently, there are a few milestones to look out for at this age.

Here are some things your child will likely do when they’re between 13 to 15 months old:

Social/Emotional Checklist(7):

• Shows affection to parent or caregiver (hugs, kisses, cuddles)

• Hugs stuffed animals or dolls

• Claps hands together when excited

• Shows you something they like, such as a toy or object

• Copies other children during play

Language/Communication Checklist(7):

• Attempts to say words besides “mama” or “dada”

• Points to things as a way to ask for them or receive help

• Follows directions when they are given with a gesture and words

• Looks at/for a familiar object when you say its name

• Reaches for you when they want to be picked up(8)

Movement and Physical Development Checklist(7):

• Attempts to use things properly (like a phone)

• Stacks small objects, like blocks, two or more at a time

Cognitive Checklist(7):

• Feeds herself food by using her fingers

• Walks (at least a few steps) independently

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 13 to 15 Month Old

Narrate Your Day

Even though your young toddler isn’t capable of having full blown conversations just yet, the more you talk to them, the more words they’ll be exposed to and encouraged to pick up. By talking to your toddler, you’re helping develop their language skills.(4) Generally toddlers understand more than what they can communicate on their own.(4)

Choose Toys Wisely

By this age, your toddler can pick things up with his finger and thumb.(6) So choose toys that help him develop his hand-eye coordination and motor skills.(3) (Puzzles with large pieces and vibrant colors are great for hand-eye coordination!) Avoid toys with small pieces as your toddler may try to put them in his mouth. Toys that encourage repetition and walking around (like push toys) can help with their development and show off those brand-new walking skills!

Have Playdates

By setting up playdates for your child, you’re giving him a change of scenery and a chance to practice his budding social skills.(10) Don’t be alarmed if your toddler is less than enthused about his new pal, however. He may grab a toy from his playdate or shove the other child out of the way to get something he wants.(10) This is because he hasn’t mastered the concept of empathy, yet!(10) But the chance to interact with and observe peers can still be useful (and you may enjoy getting some adult conversation in, too!).

Make Reading Part of Your Routine

Even babies get pleasure from books! By this age, your child can select the book they want you to read to them.(5) They’ll even be able to point to pictures they like.(5) So encourage your 13- to 15-month-old to participate in the bedtime reading routine. If there are animals in the book, make the sound the animal makes so your toddler can imitate you. When your child points to an image, name what they’re pointing to. They’ll be able to pay attention for at least a few minutes while you enjoy looking at a book together, so help them turn the pages and get reading!(5)

Every Stage is Full of Surprises

Support your child through all stages of development! To read more blogs like this with helpful parenting tips, subscribe to my newsletter!

You can also check out the other blogs in the infant and early childhood development series for more information on your child’s development and how to help them grow and learn! For more info on newborns to 6 month olds, click here. For 7 to 9 month olds, click here. And to learn about 10 to 12 month olds, click here. 

References

1. (2020, August). Geddes, J. When do babies start walking? What to Expect. https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/first-steps/

2. (2022, March). Dewar, G. When do babies start walking, and how does it develop? Parenting Science. https://parentingscience.com/when-do-babies-start-walking/

3. (2020, November). 13-month-old: toddlerhood has begun! Pampers. https://www.pampers.com/en-us/toddler/development/article/13-month-old?web_traffic_source=direct

4. (2019, October). St. Clair, M., Lloyd-Esenkaya, V. When should my child start speaking? The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/when-should-my-child-start-speaking-122579

5. (2013, March). How to share books with your 12- to 14-month-old. Healthy Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/How-to-Share-Books-with-Your-12-to-14-Month-Old.aspx?_gl=1*1drff11*_ga*MTA4NjE2NzAyOS4xNjUyMzA3OTY2*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*MTY1MjMwNzk2Ni4xLjEuMTY1MjMwODA5Ny4w&_ga=2.230413080.505984204.1652307967-1086167029.1652307966

6. Infant & Toddler Development. 13-15 Months. The Parent Line. http://www.theparentline.org/infant-toddler-development/13-15-months/

7. (2022, March). Important milestones: your baby by fifteen months. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-15mo.html

8. Toddler Month by Month: 13 Months. The Bump. https://www.thebump.com/toddler-month-by-month/13-month-old

9. Logan-Banks, P. Developmental milestones: self-care Baby Centre. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a6503/developmental-milestones-self-care

10. (2022, March). Masters, M. 15-month-old child. What to Expect. https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/15-month-old.aspx

Infant Development: Cruising, First Words, and Your 10 to 12 Month Old

How is it possible that your precious child is already a year old? Doesn’t it seem like they were born just yesterday?

The 12-month mark will be here before you know it. And between the ages of 10 and 12 months, your baby’s curiosity is expanding at a rapid pace.

Around their first birthday, they’ll likely say their very first word! You’ll melt at the cuteness when your baby says “dada” or “mama” for the first time. And soon the baby babbling will transform into even more real words you can recognize.

With this exciting stage comes crawling, standing, and eventually… walking! Your baby’s newfound independence is sure to keep you on your toes.  

You’ll watch your little one learn, grow, and change every single day!

Infant Development: Your Baby From 10⁠ to 12 Months

Important language and movement milestones occur between the ages of 10 and 12 months, and they’re oh so much fun to enjoy with your child!

Crawling, Cruising, Walking

All babies develop, grow, and reach milestones at their own pace. But it’s natural to wonder when your child may start to crawl. Typically babies learn to crawl between 7 and 10 months old.(2) The more your child can move around, the more they’ll want to explore on their own. Rolling, scooting, creeping on their belly or full on crawling—your little one will be learning, growing, and changing every single day. And it’s so much fun to watch!

At every chance your child gets, they’ll be showing off new skills and interacting with the wonderful world around them. Your child may enjoy “cruising” or walking around without adult help while holding onto furniture for support. Typically by 10 months, your baby will be able to walk slowly while holding your hands. Around 11 months, they’ll be standing up by themselves, climbing up stairs, and cruising the living room. And they may even take their first unsupported steps by their first birthday!(3)
 

Baby’s First Words! How to Communicate With Your 10- to 12-Month-Old

Every child will say their first word in their own time. “Mama” or “dada” may become part of their vocabulary by the time they’re 10 months old. And one additional word may be in the mix by 11 months.(4) By their first birthday, two other words besides “mama” and “dad” could be in your child’s vocabulary. And how exciting that will be!(4) Whether it’s “bus,” “ball,” “hi,” or “dog,” hearing your child say their first word will be an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Your 10- to 12-month-old will start to understand short phrases like “hand me the toy” and wave when you say “bye bye!”(1) Short, “baby talk” sentences may creep into your child’s vocabulary. Each day brings a new way to interact with the world, as shaking their head “no” or asking for something by gesturing or pointing becomes the norm.

Play a Game

“Copycat” is a great game to play with your child to encourage the development of their social skills and ability to mimic others.(5) To play, sit across from your child and show them something they can easily copy, like covering their eyes, sticking out their tongue, or scrunching up their nose. Offer praise when they copy your gesture—you’ll both be sure to end up in fits of giggles by the game’s end!

Infant Development: Milestones From 10 to 12 Months

There are a few important milestones to watch out for at this age, though please remember every child develops at his or her own pace! Here are some things your child will likely do within this age range:

Social/Emotional Checklist(8):

• May display shyness , nervousness, or fear with strangers

• Shows facial expressions (happy, sad, surprised, angry)

• Has a reaction when you leave (cries, reaches for you, or simply looks)

• When you call their name, looks to you

• Smiles and laughs during peek-a-boo

• Enjoys games like pat-a-cake or copycat

Language/Communication Checklist(6):

• Does simple gestures (shakes head “no” or waves)

• Follows simple verbal requests or instructions

• Imitates the words you say

• Changes tone when making sounds to imitate speech

• Can say “mama” or “dada” and exclamations like “oh no!”

Movement and Physical Development Checklist(6):

• Sits without assistance

• Can pull himself up to stand and walk by holding on to furniture (“cruising”)

• May take a couple of steps without holding on

• May stand without support

• By 12 months, may take first unsupported steps

• Can use thumb and pointer finger to pick things up (begins to finger-feed themselves)

• Passes things from one hand to the other

• Points and pokes with pointer finger

• Copies gestures

Cognitive Checklist(6):

• Is able to put things in and take things out of a container

• Locates hidden objects easily

• Can identify objects when named (8)

• Drops or places things without assistance

• Explores objects by shaking, throwing or banging (especially by banging two things together)

• Imitates you (may “talk” on the phone like you do, or brush their hair)

What You Can Do at This Stage to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 10- to 12-Month-Old

Model Healthy Self-Expression

Being a child can be frustrating. Babies and children don’t have access to the language they need to express themselves. And because they’re still learning, they often don’t understand what it is they’re experiencing when they feel big emotions. Your baby might display frustration or the desire to gain control of a situation by throwing things or screaming. If your baby throws a toy out of frustration, remain calm. Say, “You’re frustrated. Let’s try again together.” Then demonstrate what they need to do to succeed. Afterward, give them the chance to try again. You might say, “The triangle block goes here. Now, why don’t you try?” 

Keep Reading and Singing

By this age, books with textures, flaps, activities or other interactive features will captivate your baby’s attention. Keep age-appropriate books nearby so your baby can pick them up and interact with them even if you’re not reading aloud. It’s likely your baby will enjoy music at this age and move and groove to certain tunes. When you encourage humming and sing to your child, you’re stimulating them while also helping develop their language, motor skills, and rhythmic capabilities.(9)

Initiate Conversations

Even if your baby hasn’t yet said her first word, encouraging conversation and pausing for her to respond is still helpful and promotes the development of healthy language and communication skills. If your child says, “baba” and points to a bottle, you can say, “Yes, you want the bottle.” If she points to a dog while you’re reading a picture book, you could say, “You found the dog. What noise does a dog make?” Pause, giving your baby a chance to respond. (Even if it’s just with a sound.) Then offer the correct answer to your question. (“Woof!”) Continue to ask your baby questions throughout the day about her environment. You don’t have to limit yourself to yes or no questions! Even though you might want an adult to talk to by the end of the day, engaging with your baby in this way helps boost her development.(6)

Encourage Curiosity

Continue to encourage your child’s curiosity. Maybe they’re curious about the zipper on your coat, the bubbles at the park, or the colorful blocks they have at home. Teaching your child to stack blocks or sort toys by color and shape helps build their motor, concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.(9)

Don’t have a 1-year-old yet? Check out the other blogs in the infant development series for more information on your baby’s development and how to help them grow and learn! For more info on newborns, click here . For 7- 9-month-olds, click here .

References 

1. (2019, July). Learning, Play, and Your 8- to 12- Month-Old. Kids Health. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/learn812m.html

2. (2020, March). When Do Babies Start Crawling? Pamperse. https://www.pampers.com/en-us/baby/development/article/when-do-babies-crawl

3. (2021, March). When Does a Baby Start Walking? Grow by WebMD https://www.webmd.com/baby/when-does-a-baby-start-walking

4. Ages 8 to 12 Months—5 Months of Magical Milestones. Similac. https://www.similac.com/baby-feeding/milestones-development/8-9-10-11-12-month-old.html

5. (2021, September). 9 Fun Activities for 10-Month-Old Babies. Peanut. https://www.peanut-app.io/blog/activities-for-10-month-old

6. (2020, June). Infant development: Milestones from 10 to 12 months. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/infant-development/art-20047380

7. (2022, March). Important Milestones: Your Baby By Nine Months. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-9mo.html

8. (2022, March). Important Milestones: Your Child By One Year. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-1yr.html

9. At 8 – 12 months your baby should… Healthy Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/english/ages-stages/baby/Pages/default.aspx

10. (2020, October). 10-Month-Old Baby Activities: 8 Things to Do With Your Child. Flo Health.  https://flo.health/being-a-mom/your-baby/growth-and-development/activities-for-a-10-month-old-baby

Infant Development: 7 to 9 Month Old Milestones and How to Support Your Child's Development

And just like that, your baby is 7 months old and already more than halfway to his first birthday! Gone are the days where you could introduce him to strangers without much of a fuss—you may find he’s clingier than you’re used to and doesn’t like to be separated from you. 7 months also marks a more mobile and inquisitive time—say goodbye to letting him play quietly in one spot while you go about your day. Baby proofing the house becomes a must at this stage if you haven’t already. Pro tip: get on your hands and knees to see things from the baby’s vantage point to make your home as safe as possible for your little one.

Infant Development: Your Baby From 7⁠ to ⁠9 Months

Fostering an environment that encourages safe, age-appropriate learning and play is vital for your infant’s development. 

The Joys of Exploration (and How to Do It Safely!)

Baby is on the move! Around this age, they might scoot, crawl, or roll to get from point A to point B and it will be fun to witness. Make sure to babyproof sharp corners and cabinets within reach (especially ones with toxic cleaners or other chemicals), secure furniture, cover electrical outlets, and use a baby gate to block off stairs.

At this age, your baby will sit on their own, reach for toys (and other objects they shouldn’t grab, like your dangly earrings or the kitty cat’s tail!) and want to explore the world. All things colorful and textured will capture their attention as their eyesight continues to improve. 

Around 8 months old, your baby will start to comprehend object permanence—meaning if you hide a toy under a blanket, he will know to look for it. He may even try to pull the toy out of its hiding place! Another exciting thing to look out for is when baby passes a toy from one hand to the other. What a beautiful display of hand-eye coordination! Make sure to not leave small objects around as baby’s ability to pick them up and put them in his mouth is improving. 

Is It Normal for My Baby to Cry Around Strangers?

Your in-laws or beloved babysitter used to come over all the time with no protests from your infant. But now your 7-month-old cries and screams when you try to do the hand off—and you’re starting to wonder if date night will ever be possible again.  

Sound familiar? 

Around this time, your baby may start to display anxiety or wariness of strangers. As distressing as this is (for both you and baby,) this is actually a normal part of their development! 

You may be wondering, but why now? 

Because your 7-month-old is now able to recognize faces. And they strongly prefer their parents’ or caregivers’ faces over anyone else’s. 

Anxiety around strangers is common and expected in children this age. (It’s common through age 2!) This is not a sign of emotional issues. It’s part of your child’s cognitive development—and a normal part, at that! 

Here are some tips for dealing with stranger anxiety:

• Allow your baby to meet strangers in a safe and familiar environment, such as your own home. This will help them feel more comfortable and secure.

• Hold and comfort your baby when introducing them to someone new.

• Act friendly and calm. This sends a message to your baby that the person they’re meeting is safe and trustworthy.

• Distance yourself temporarily from a visitor if your baby becomes upset around them. Comfort and soothe your baby and when they’ve calmed down, you can try the introduction again by engaging in an activity together.

• If you’re going somewhere unfamiliar where you’ll be around a lot of new people, bring a transitional object such as a favorite toy or blanket to offer extra comfort.

Infant Development: Milestones From 7 to 9 Months

According to the CDC, there are a few milestones to watch out for at this age: 

Social/Emotional Checklist:

• May display anxiety or fear around strangers and be clingy with adults they know

• Has favorite toys

Language/Communication Checklist:

• Understands what the word “no” means

• Babbles with varying sounds

• Points to things

• Copies the gestures or sounds others’ make

Movement and Physical Development Checklist:

• Stands up by themselves while holding on to something

• Pulls themselves up to stand

• Sits down by themselves without support

• Crawls

Cognitive Checklist:

• Able to track an object

• After seeing you hide something, looks for it

• Plays peek-a-boo

• Can transfer an object from one hand to the other

• Picks things up between index finger and thumb

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 7 to 9-Month-Old

Encourage Crawling

Play and movement continues to be vital for your baby’s development. Continue to do supervised tummy time, and position toys out of reach so he’s encouraged to army crawl or creep toward them. 

Babyproof Your Home

Children are naturally curious, and as your child becomes more mobile, it’s important to keep him safe. You’ll want to encourage exploration in an environment that is properly babyproofed. He’ll be tempted to explore and get into just about everything, so creating a safe environment free from choking hazards and other dangers is key. 

Explore Cause and Effect

Your baby’s confidence will grow as he discovers he has an influence on his environment. Build a short tower of blocks and then push it over. Play with toys together to show your baby that his actions can cause a reaction. 

Read Often

Reading aloud for a few minutes every day is an effective way to positively influence your baby’s language development. Use sound effects, make facial expressions, and read from colorful picture books to keep your child engaged. 

Keep Talking

Narrate parts of your day to your baby! Say something and then give him time to respond by repeating sounds. Ask him questions. Even though he isn’t using words to respond back to you, the imitation of a back-and-forth conversation is crucial for his language development.

Don’t have a 7-month-old yet? Don’t miss the post on infants from 0 to 6 months!  

 

References

1. (2021, October). Important Milestones: Your Baby By Nine Months. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-9mo.html

2. Bielecki, C. (2019, October). Baby Growth and Development: 4-7 Month Milestones. Parents. https://www.parents.com/baby/development/growth/4-7month-milestones/?slide=slide_596033b9-b18b-4905-aa79-c02590b1ab64#slide_596033b9-b18b-4905-aa79-c02590b1ab64

3. Parents’ Guide to Crawling. Pathways.org. https://pathways.org/watch/parents-guide-to-crawling/

4. (2020, June). Infant development: Milestones From 7 to 9 Months. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/infant-development/art-20047086

5. Bowers, E. (2014, July). 10 Ways to promote baby development. Everyday Health. https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/your-developing-baby/ways-to-promote-baby-development/

Infant Development: 0 to 6 Month Old Milestones and How to Support Development as a Parent

If you’re a parent or caregiver, you’ve probably heard about childhood developmental milestones from doctors and teachers or other professionals who work with kids. Everyone who spends time with young children on a regular basis is looking for evidence that their development is on track. 

Maybe you’ve already spent a lot of time reading about infant and early childhood development. Or maybe the idea of age-appropriate milestones is new to you. Keeping track of milestones—when there are so many of them to look out for—can feel overwhelming. But monitoring your child’s development—and engaging with them in ways that contribute to their learning and growth—is so important.

The 4 Important Areas of Early Childhood Development to Look Out For

Children are truly amazing learners. They absorb so much from the interesting world around them. (And they grow up so fast!) You as a parent or caregiver play a vital role in your child’s emotional, language, physical, and cognitive development. 

I’m here to demystify the developmental stages babies and young children go through so you know: 

• What developmental milestones to look for at what age

• Specific things you as a parent can do to help your child learn and grow

Developmental milestones refer to the skill sets most children demonstrate competency in within a certain age range. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) separates milestones into four primary areas (1):

• Social/emotional

• Language/communication

• Movement/physical development

• Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving)

All children develop at their own pace. But each age range comes with important milestones to look for. As parents, there are developmentally appropriate things you can do to help your child engage with the world around them. By understanding your infant or toddler’s development, you can provide the type of environment your child needs to grow and thrive. Every parent wants to support their child to the best of their ability. Being equipped with the knowledge of what your child is going through every step of the way as they grow and learn will help you do that. 

Infant Development: Your Baby From 0⁠ to ⁠3 Months

Let’s talk about newborns! You’ve just had a baby. They’re—quite literally—a bundle of joy. When your baby is first born, their body will continue to fold slightly. Their fingers and feet naturally curl inward and their arms and legs fold toward their body, mimicking the position they held in the womb (2). Over time their body will begin to unfold and lengthen. 

The One Major Thing to Help Your Newborn Develop

(Hint: you’ve probably already heard of it.)

Tummy time—or the time your baby spends on his or her stomach while awake and supervised—is a vital exercise for your newborn to develop motor, visual, and sensory skills as well as strong neck and shoulder muscles. (3) The muscles your newborn develops during tummy time will (eventually) help them sit up, roll over, crawl, and (ultimately) walk! (3) Tummy time also helps prevent positional plagiocephaly—flat spots on the baby’s head—which results from too much time spent on their back. (4)

Infant Development: Milestones From 0 to 3 Months

According to the CDC, there are a few milestones to watch for in your newborn. 

Social/Emotional Checklist:

• Tries to look at parent

• Shows an interest in faces and begins to smile at people

• Can briefly calm him or herself (i.e. by sucking on their hand)

Language/Communication Checklist:

• Makes gurgling sounds, coos

• Turns their head toward a sound or voice

• Cries differently to express different needs

• Smiles or quiets down in response to a sound or voice

Movement/Physical Development Checklist:

• Lifts and holds up their head

• Begins to push up when lying on their tummy

Cognitive Checklist:

• Pays attention to people’s faces

• Begins to recognize people or objects from a distance

• Begins to follow moving things with their eyes

• Acts bored (cries, fussy) if the activity doesn’t change

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 0 to 3 Month Old


Take Time for Snuggles

Babies need a lot of physical touch to feel safe and secure. Cuddling and holding your baby not only makes him or her feel loved, but also regulates the baby’s heartbeat and breathing. Skin-to-skin contact is important as it releases oxytocin, relaxing both you and the baby. Develop a strong bond with your newborn and nurture his development by cuddling, playing with, and talking to him. 

Talk to Your Baby Often

Whether you’re feeding, changing, bathing, or dressing your baby, talk to him. Even though your newborn can’t talk back, talking to your child is so important. It not only helps him get to know the sound of your voice, which can be soothing, it also helps with language development over time. Reading or singing to him are also great ways to bond with your newborn.

Answer Cries and Soothe Him

Answering your baby when he’s crying isn’t going to spoil him. It’s going to teach him that he can rely on you to get his needs met, and help you develop a strong bond. Attend to your baby when he’s crying and attempt to soothe him so he knows you’re there for him. 

Mirror His Smiles by Smiling Back at Him

Mirroring conveys to your baby that he is heard and understood. Babies need psychological mirroring in order to understand that they exist in the world and have valid, real experiences. Mirroring your baby’s behavior is crucial for you and your infant to develop a strong bond.
 

Infant Development: Your Baby From 4⁠ to ⁠6 Months

And just like that, you no longer have a newborn. You now have an infant! In this stage, your baby will begin to understand the concept of action and reaction. When your baby does something like smile at you—and you smile back—he begins to understand that he can influence his environment. Because of this, a 4⁠ to ⁠6 month old will begin to model the facial expressions or behavior of the people around him.   

Infant Development: Milestones From 4 to 6 Months

Around 5 months, your baby will probably have developed color vision. (5) Prior to this, babies only see in black and white! It’s easier for your infant to see bright colors, so it’s useful to introduce colorful toys as opposed to muted shades. 

Around 6 months, your baby will probably sit on his own. And when you hold him upright, he’ll be able to start putting weight on both of his legs (an important pre-walking milestone.) And around 6 or 7 months, your baby will probably be able to roll both ways instead of favoring one direction. (5)

According to the CDC, here are some other milestones to watch for in your infant. 

Social/Emotional Checklist:

• Smiles at people

• Begins to recognize familiar faces and knows if someone is a stranger

• Likes to play with people, especially parents, and may cry when playing stops

• Copies and responds to other people’s emotions by smiling or frowning

Language/Communication Checklist:

• Babbles

• Starts stringing vowels together while babbling, may begin to make consonant sounds

• Copies sounds and enjoys taking turns “talking” with parent

• Shows displeasure or joy with sounds

• Responds to own name

Movement and Physical Development Checklist:

• Lifts and holds head steady without support

• Supports weight on legs to stand by pushing down when feet are on a hard surface

• Rolls from tummy to back and back to tummy

• Pushes up to elbows from prone position

• Can bring hands to mouth and hold and shake a toy

• Begins to sit up without support (pillows may be useful)

Cognitive Checklist:

• Communicates happiness or sadness, responds to affection

• Shows curiosity, looks around, tries to grasp out-of-reach toys with one hand

• Passes things from hand to mouth or from hand to hand

• Watches faces, recognizes people or objects from a distance

• Moves eyes side to side to follow moving objects

What You Can Do to Encourage Healthy Development in Your 4 to 6 Month Old

Keep Talking to Your Baby and Repeat Words

Talking to your infant is important for language and communication development. Read colorful picture books, point to and name objects, and say the names of family members, friends, or pets to encourage growth and curiosity in this area. (6)

Around this time, your baby may start to recognize her own name as well. Keep repeating words to and speaking to your child—she’ll likely respond with babbling, and eventually will string a few vowels together. (6)

Make Time to Play Together

Try playing peek-a-boo! Though your baby won’t yet understand the concept of object permanence—the ability for something to exist even if she can’t see it—peek-a-boo can assist with your baby’s visual tracking and communication skills development. (7)

 Your baby may also like looking at herself in the mirror! She won’t yet know it’s her own reflection, but she’ll likely be curious and enjoy having a baby-safe mirror around to interact with.

Continue playing and cuddling together and introducing her to trusted friends and family members.

Encourage Different Types of Movement

While doing supervised tummy time, put a colorful toy just out of your baby’s grasp to encourage her to turn her head and reach for it. Change positions often, helping your baby move from tummy time to standing to sitting up (pillows can be useful to offer back support).
 

Support Your Child Through All Stages of Development

You are your child’s first and greatest teacher. Contact with you—whether that’s snuggling, singing, speaking, reading, or some combination of all of those—is what promotes and supports your baby’s development. By responding reliably to your child’s cries, and other signs of distress, your baby learns that he or she can depend on you. Consistent (not perfect!) caregiving and routines help children develop into secure, independent people. 
 

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References

1. (2021, August). Important Milestones: Your Baby By Two Months. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-2mo.html

2. (2021, December). How Your Newborn Behaves. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/How-Your-Newborn-Behaves.aspx

3. Gavin, M. (2019, October). Tummy Time. Kids Health. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/tummy-time.html

4. Hoecker, J. (2020, August). What’s the importance of tummy time for a baby? Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/tummy-time/faq-20057755

5. Bielecki, C. (2019, October). Baby Growth and Development: 4-7 Month Milestones. Parents. https://www.parents.com/baby/development/growth/4-7month-milestones/?slide=slide_596033b9-b18b-4905-aa79-c02590b1ab64#slide_596033b9-b18b-4905-aa79-c02590b1ab64

6. (2021, August). Important Milestones: Your Baby By Six Months. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-6mo.html

7. 4-6 Month Milestones. Pathways.org. https://pathways.org/growth-development/4-6-months/overview/