Source: bing.comAs a parent, it’s natural to want to track your baby’s development milestones. At 20 months old, your baby has likely been on the move for a while now and is developing rapidly in many areas. Here are some of the key 20 month old baby development milestones to keep an eye out for:
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Physical Development
By 20 months old, your baby may have developed the skills to:
- Walk backward and forward
- Run
- Jump
- Throw a ball
Your toddler may also be able to climb stairs, although they may still need your help and supervision.
Language and Cognitive Development
At 20 months old, your baby may have developed the skills to:
- Follow simple instructions
- Use 10 or more words
- Combine two words into simple phrases (e.g. “More milk”)
- Point to objects when named
- Recognize familiar people and objects
- Enjoy pretend play (e.g. playing with dolls or stuffed animals)
Social and Emotional Development
At 20 months old, your baby may have developed the skills to:
- Show affection to familiar people
- Enjoy playing with other children, although they may still prefer parallel play (playing alongside other children rather than with them)
- Begin to understand and express emotions like joy, anger, and sadness
- Start to show independence and assertiveness (e.g. saying “No” or “Me do it”)
Sensory and Motor Development
At 20 months old, your baby may have developed the skills to:
- Identify and name simple objects in books (e.g. “Dog” or “Car”)
- Enjoy messy play with materials like clay, sand, or water
- Use a spoon and fork to feed themselves, although they may still prefer to use their hands
- Use a pincer grasp (holding small objects between the thumb and index finger)
While these are common 20 month old baby development milestones, it’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my 20 month old baby be doing?
At 20 months old, your baby may be walking, running, and jumping. They may also be using 10 or more words, following simple instructions, and enjoying pretend play. Your baby may also be showing affection to familiar people and beginning to understand and express emotions like joy, anger, and sadness.
When do babies start to walk?
Babies typically start to walk between 9 and 18 months old. However, every baby develops at their own pace and there is a wide range of what is considered “normal.”
Is it normal for a 20 month old to not talk?
While many 20 month olds are using 10 or more words, some babies may not be speaking much yet. This is normal as every child develops at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician.
How can I encourage my 20 month old’s development?
You can encourage your 20 month old’s development by providing opportunities for exploration and play. Offer a variety of toys and activities, read books together, and talk to your baby regularly. Encourage your baby to try new things, but also be patient and let them explore at their own pace.
When should I be concerned about my baby’s development?
If you have concerns about your baby’s development at any age, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you evaluate your baby’s progress and determine if any further testing or intervention is needed.