As your little one turns one, you may be wondering about their intellectual development. It’s an exciting time as your baby grows and starts to learn new things. In this article, we’ll explore what you can expect when it comes to your 12 month old baby’s intellectual development.
Table of Contents
Language and Communication
By the time your baby is a year old, they may be able to say a few words such as “mama” and “dada”. They may also be able to understand simple commands such as “come here” and “give me the ball”. Your little one may also start to use gestures such as waving goodbye or nodding their head. It’s important to encourage your baby’s language development by talking to them, reading books, and singing songs.
Source: bing.comFine Motor Skills
At 12 months old, your baby may be able to pick up small objects using their thumb and pointer finger. They may also be able to drink from a cup and feed themselves with their fingers. Encourage your baby’s fine motor skills by providing them with toys and objects that they can practice picking up and manipulating.
Gross Motor Skills
Your 12 month old baby may be crawling, standing, and even taking their first steps. They may also be able to climb stairs with assistance. Encourage your baby’s gross motor skills by providing plenty of safe space for them to move around and explore.
Cognitive Development
Your baby’s cognitive development is growing rapidly at this age. They may be able to imitate actions such as clapping or waving. They may also start to understand cause and effect, such as realizing that a ball will roll when pushed. Encourage your baby’s cognitive development by providing them with toys and activities that challenge them to figure out how things work.
Social and Emotional Development
At 12 months old, your baby may start to display a range of emotions. They may be happy one minute and crying the next. They may also start to show an interest in other children and enjoy playing with them. Encourage your baby’s social and emotional development by providing them with plenty of opportunities for social interaction and playtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do to encourage my baby’s intellectual development?
You can encourage your baby’s intellectual development by talking to them, reading books, and singing songs. Provide them with toys and activities that challenge them to figure out how things work.
When should I be concerned about my baby’s intellectual development?
Every baby develops at their own pace, so it’s important not to compare your baby to others. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s intellectual development, speak to your pediatrician.
What kind of toys and activities are best for my baby’s intellectual development?
Toys and activities that encourage your baby to use their hands, think, and problem solve are great for their intellectual development. Examples include building blocks, shape sorters, and puzzles.
How can I help my baby develop their language skills?
Talking to your baby and reading books together are great ways to help develop their language skills. You can also sing songs, play games such as peek-a-boo, and point out objects and name them as you go about your day.
What can I do to encourage my baby’s social and emotional development?
Providing your baby with plenty of opportunities for social interaction and playtime is key to their social and emotional development. You can also respond to their emotions and help them learn to regulate their own emotions by providing comfort and reassurance.
Overall, your 12 month old baby is on a journey of rapid intellectual development. By providing them with plenty of love, attention, and opportunities to learn and grow, you can help them reach their full potential.