First Steps?

Some babies take their first wobbly steps now, others wait a little longer. Either way, your baby is moving with increasing confidence and has a clear opinion about most things.

Development

First steps may come now (normal range is 9–16 months)
Social referencing: Looks at you to check whether something is safe
Uses sounds with meaning: "Mama," "dada," "ba" for ball
Follows instructions: "Get your shoe," "Come here"
Tests limits deliberately — looks at you and does exactly what you said no to

Growth

Boys: Average 20.7 lbs / 29.5 in (9.4 kg / 75 cm)
Girls: Average 19.2 lbs / 28.7 in (8.7 kg / 73 cm)

Sleep

11–14 hours per day (nighttime sleep 10–12 hours + 1 nap)
Many babies are down to one midday nap now
New motor skills (walking!) can cause restless nights, but it passes

Feeding

3 meals + 1–2 snacks
Eats most of the family's food, cut into small pieces
Begin phasing out the bottle — a cup is the way forward
Prepare for the transition to whole cow's milk at 12 months
Vitamin D: Continue with 400 IU (10 micrograms) daily

Good to Know

Do not compare with other babies. Some walk at 9 months, others at 16. Both are normal
Almost 1 year old! Plan a celebration suited to your baby: small groups, familiar food, short and sweet
Your baby is very proud of new skills — show them you notice!

Activity Tips

Hold your baby under the arms or let them push a sturdy push toy. Those first wobbly steps are priceless — and your baby is so proud!

Explore on Babysential

Sleep Tracker — Follow the sleep pattern
Milestones — Log those first steps!
Baby — All baby guides and tools

Tip: Let your baby do things at their own pace. All children develop differently, and that is completely normal.