Happy First Birthday!
What a year it has been! From a tiny newborn to a little person who walks (or is on their way), talks, and has a clear personality.
Development
- Walking or close to it: some are already running, others are still cruising (all normal)
- Says 1–5 words with meaning: "mama," "dada," "no," "ball"
- Understands 50+ words and simple sentences
- Solves problems: Tries standing on things to reach higher, opening lids, pushing objects
- Pretend play begins: Feeds the teddy bear, puts the doll to bed, talks on a toy phone
Growth
- Boys: Average 21.2 lbs / 29.9 in (9.6 kg / 76 cm)
- Girls: Average 19.6 lbs / 29.1 in (8.9 kg / 74 cm)
- Your baby has typically tripled their birth weight
Sleep
- 11–14 hours per day (nighttime sleep 10–12 hours + 1 nap)
- Most babies sleep well through the night now
- One midday nap (1.5–3 hours)
Feeding
- Whole cow's milk as a drink can be introduced now (AAP recommends whole milk for most toddlers; limit to around 16–24 oz/day including dairy). Continue breast milk as long as you both wish
- 3 meals + 2 snacks: like the rest of the family
- Feeds themselves with a spoon: messy but important for development
- Honey can now be given safely
- Be careful with whole nuts (choking hazard) and limit added salt
- Vitamin D: Continue with 400 IU (10 micrograms) daily. Recommended through early childhood (check with your pediatrician)
Good to Know
- Well-baby visit: The 12-month check-up typically includes vaccinations (MMR, varicella, and others per your local schedule), developmental assessment, and a conversation about the transition to toddlerhood
- From baby to toddler: a new chapter begins
- Your baby has a strong will now: pick your battles
Activity Tips
Stacking and sorting! Blocks, nesting cups, putting things into and taking them out of a box. Your baby loves sorting: it is early mathematics.
Explore on Babysential
- Sleep Tracker. Sleep pattern is stable now
- Milestones. Follow your toddler's development
- Baby. All guides and tools
Tip: Enjoy those wobbly steps and first words. It gets more challenging, but also incredibly fun.