Speed and Independence

Your baby is starting to pick up speed — literally! The first running attempts are underway, and the desire to do things independently grows stronger every day. "Myself!" is a word you'll be hearing a lot.

Development

Attempts to run — it looks more like fast walking with short, unsteady steps, but the will is there
5–10 meaningful words, and new words keep coming. Some babies say more, others use fewer words but understand even more
Begins using a spoon independently — food actually making it into the mouth (not just on the floor) becomes gradually more common
Stacks 2–3 blocks on top of each other
First scribbles begin — holds a crayon and makes marks on paper
Understands "no" — but often chooses to ignore it. Completely normal at this age

Growth

Boys: Average 10.3 kg / 79 cm (22.7 lb / 31.1 in)
Girls: Average 9.6 kg / 77 cm (21.2 lb / 30.3 in)

Sleep

11–14 hours per day (nighttime sleep 10–12 hours + 1 nap)
One midday nap (1–2.5 hours)
Your baby may have a lot of energy and protest napping — a calm wind-down routine helps

Feeding

Eats more independently — spoon, fork (with help), and finger foods
Let your baby practice — it gets messy, but independence is more important than a clean table
Offer varied food in small, manageable pieces
Water as the main drink between meals, whole milk at meals
Some babies start becoming picky — offer without pressure, and let your baby see you eating the same food
Vitamin D: Continue with 400 IU (10 mcg) daily

Good to Know

15-month well-baby checkup with MMR vaccine (1st dose). Your pediatrician will assess walking, language, hearing, and social development
The need for independence is strong now. Let your baby try on their own where it's safe — getting dressed, eating, washing hands
Frustration is common — your baby wants more than they can manage. Help with words: "You want that! Shall we try together?"
Setting limits is becoming important — short, clear messages work best

Activity Tip

The sandbox! Sand is fantastic for sensory exploration. Scooping, pouring, digging, and building — your baby can keep at it forever. Great for fine motor skills and creativity. Bring cups, spoons, and molds.

Explore on Babysential

Sleep Tracker — Track sleep patterns
Milestones — Record new skills
Baby — More guides for your baby's development

Tip: Don't stress if your baby isn't running yet or doesn't have many words. Development comes in spurts — some weeks a lot happens, other weeks it's quieter. It all evens out.