The Little Cyclist!

Your 22-month-old is trying out the tricycle, talking in short sentences, and is genuinely starting to play with other children — not just alongside them.

Development

• Tries to pedal a tricycle — coordination comes gradually
• Short sentences: "I want", "Look at me", "Not that one"
• Plays WITH other children — not just parallel play. Starting to share, take turns, and cooperate (with a little help)
• Throws a ball overarm — and tries to catch
• Recognizes themselves in the mirror and in photos
• Counts to 2–3 (without necessarily understanding quantity)
• Masters simple puzzles with 3–5 pieces

Growth

• Boys: Average 11.8 kg / 86 cm (26.0 lb / 33.9 in)
• Girls: Average 11.2 kg / 84.5 cm (24.7 lb / 33.3 in)

Sleep

• 11–14 hours per day (nighttime sleep 10–12 hours + 1 nap)
• The midday nap may get shorter (45 min–1.5 hours)
• Some babies start testing limits at bedtime — "More water!", "One more book!"
• Be consistent but calm. Firm limits provide security

Feeding

• 3 meals + 2 snacks — family food
• Eating more and more independently with spoon and fork
• Shared meals are important — your baby mimics what others eat
• Cut food into small pieces. Your baby chews well, but can still choke
• Whole milk to drink (max 500 ml / 17 oz dairy products per day)
• Vitamin D: Continue with 400 IU (10 mcg) daily

Good to Know

• Social play is a big step: Playing with other children requires turn-taking, sharing, and communication — skills that develop over time
• Conflicts between children are normal — they need adults to guide: "We'll take turns" or "Can you ask if you can have it?"
• Ownership is important: "Mine!" is a common word. Your baby is learning that things belong to people — this is cognitive development, not selfishness
• Tricycle: Use a helmet from the start, even at low speed. Good habits start early

Activity Tip

A ride on the tricycle! Put your baby on a tricycle (with or without pedals) and let them practice. Strengthens leg muscles, coordination, and balance. Many babies love the feeling of moving forward under their own power.

Explore on Babysential

• Sleep Tracker — Track sleep and routines
• Milestones — Follow social development
• Baby — More guides for your toddler's development

Tip: When your baby says "Mine!", it's tempting to correct them. Try instead: "Yes, that's your ball. Maybe you can let Emma look at it in a bit?" Acknowledge the feeling, then guide toward sharing.