As a parent, it’s natural to want to track your child’s growth and development. Althought there are some key milestones to look out for as a parent would have realised by now that these vary GREATLY from child to child. Milestones should be used as a rough guide and in no way a measurement as all children develop at different rates. One year olds are a special age group because they are rapidly transitioning from being a baby to being a toddler. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 developmental milestones that 1 year olds typically reach, so you can keep track of your child’s progress and celebrate their achievements.
Walking
One of the biggest milestones for a one-year-old is walking. Most babies take their first steps between 9 and 12 months, and by their first birthday, they can usually walk independently. It’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace, so don’t worry if your child hasn’t started walking yet. Encourage them by providing a safe space to practice, such as a soft rug or an open grassy area.
Talking
By one year old, most babies will be able to say a few simple words like “mama” or “dada.” They will also start to understand simple instructions and be able to follow them, such as “give me the ball.” Encourage your child’s language development by talking to them often and reading books together.
Feeding themselves
Around one year old, babies will start to develop the fine motor skills needed to pick up and feed themselves with their fingers. This can be a messy process, but it’s an important step towards independence. Offer your child soft, bite-sized pieces of food that are easy for them to pick up and eat.
Playing with others
At one year old, children start to become more social and interested in playing with other children. They may start to imitate the actions of other children, and engage in simple games like peek-a-boo or rolling a ball back and forth. Encourage your child’s social skills by arranging playdates with other children.
Following simple directions
By one year old, children will start to understand and follow simple directions, such as “come here” or “give me the toy.” This is an important milestone that shows your child is developing cognitive skills and is beginning to understand cause and effect.
Recognizing familiar faces and objects
One year olds will start to recognize familiar faces, objects, and places. They may get excited when they see a favorite toy or a family member they haven’t seen in a while. Encourage your child’s recognition skills by pointing out familiar objects and people in books and in your daily routine.
Standing alone
Before taking those first steps, children will usually start to stand alone for short periods of time. This is an important milestone that shows your child is developing the core strength and balance needed to walk. Encourage your child to stand by placing toys just out of reach, or by holding their hands while they practice standing.
Pointing to objects
Around one year old, children will start to use gestures like pointing to communicate. They may point to an object they want, or point to something interesting to get your attention. Encourage your child’s communication skills by responding to their gestures and naming objects for them.
Scribbling
By one year old, children may start to make marks on paper with a crayon or marker. This is an important step towards developing fine motor skills and preparing for writing later on. Encourage your child’s creativity by providing them with washable markers and paper to explore.
Playing pretend
At one year old, children may start to engage in pretend play. They may pretend to talk on the phone or feed a stuffed animal. This is an important milestone that shows your child is developing imagination and social skills. Encourage your child’s pretend play by providing them with simple props, like a toy phone or a play kitchen.
Watching your child reach developmental milestones is an exciting and rewarding experience for parents. As your child grows and develops, they will continue to reach new milestones, each one building upon the last. Remember that every child is unique and will reach these milestones at their own pace. However, if you have concerns about your child’s development, it’s always best to talk to your child’s doctor or a pediatric specialist.
By encouraging and supporting your child through these developmental milestones, you are setting them up for success in the future. Keep celebrating and enjoying these special moments with your child, and remember to cherish each step of their journey.
Finding the perfect gift for a 1-year-old can be challenging. As a parent or a gift-giver, you want to choose something that is not only fun and engaging but also promotes their development. Here are the top 5 developmental presents for 1-year-olds that can help with child development:
Shape sorters
Shape sorters are a classic toy that can help with a child’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive development. They also teach children about shapes, colors, and problem-solving. Choose a shape sorter with large, easy-to-grasp pieces that are safe for young children.
Activity tables
Activity tables are great for encouraging a child’s physical and cognitive development. They offer a variety of activities, such as turning gears, pressing buttons, and flipping switches, that can help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. They also introduce children to cause and effect relationships.
Ride-on toys
Ride-on toys are an excellent gift for a 1-year-old who is starting to walk. They can help develop balance, coordination, and gross motor skills. Choose a ride-on toy with a wide base and sturdy construction that is safe for young children.
Stacking blocks
Stacking blocks are a timeless toy that can help with a child’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. They also teach children about spatial relationships, shapes, and sizes. Choose blocks that are large, easy to grip, and safe for young children.
Musical toys
Musical toys are great for stimulating a child’s auditory development, cognitive development, and creativity. They also teach children about cause and effect relationships. Choose a musical toy that is age-appropriate, easy to play, and has a fun and engaging sound.
These 5 developmental presents for 1-year-olds can not only provide hours of fun and entertainment but also help promote their physical, cognitive, and social development. By giving a gift that is not only enjoyable but also encourages learning and development, you are helping to set the foundation for a child’s lifelong growth and success.