Your baby is growing up so fast! At 20 months old, your little one is becoming more curious about the world around them and developing new skills every day. Here are some of the major developmental milestones you can expect to see in your 20-month-old baby:
Table of Contents
Physical Development
At this age, your baby is likely walking, running, and climbing with confidence. They may also be able to:
- Jump with both feet
- Bend over to pick up toys without falling
- Throw a ball
- Stack blocks or cups
Their fine motor skills are also improving, so they may be able to:
- Use a spoon or fork to feed themselves
- Turn the pages of a book one at a time
- Use a crayon or marker to scribble on paper
Cognitive Development
Your baby’s cognitive skills are developing rapidly at this age. They may be able to:
- Follow simple instructions
- Understand cause and effect (e.g. shaking a rattle makes noise)
- Identify common objects (e.g. ball, cup, spoon)
- Say a few words and understand more than they can say
Emotional Development
Your 20-month-old is becoming more independent and may start showing signs of frustration when they can’t do something on their own. They may also experience separation anxiety when you leave their sight. At the same time, they are developing empathy and may try to comfort you or others when they sense distress.
Social Development
Your baby is becoming more social and enjoying interacting with others. They may:
- Initiate play with other children
- Imitate the actions of others
- Enjoy being read to and looking at pictures in books
Sleep and Feeding
At 20 months old, your baby’s sleep and feeding habits may start to change. They may be eating more solid foods and drinking less milk, and their sleep may be interrupted by nightmares or night terrors.
Remember that every child develops at their own pace, and these milestones are just a general guide. If you have concerns about your child’s development, talk to their pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I encourage my 20-month-old’s development?
A: The best way to encourage your baby’s development is to provide plenty of opportunities for exploration and play. Give them safe, age-appropriate toys and activities that challenge their skills and encourage them to learn new things. Also, talk to them about what you’re doing and what you see around you to help build their language skills.
Q: When should I be concerned about my child’s development?
A: Every child develops at their own pace, but if you notice that your child is significantly behind their peers in one or more areas of development, or if they have lost skills they previously had, talk to their pediatrician. Early intervention can be crucial for addressing developmental delays.
Q: What can I do to help my 20-month-old sleep better?
A: Establish a consistent bedtime routine and a calming bedtime environment. Avoid stimulating activities before bedtime, and make sure your child is getting plenty of physical activity during the day. If your child is experiencing nightmares or night terrors, try to comfort them and reassure them that they are safe.
Q: How much should my 20-month-old be eating?
A: Every child’s appetite is different, but at this age, your baby should be eating a variety of foods and getting enough calories to support their growth and development. Offer three meals and two snacks per day, and make sure they are getting a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Q: Is it normal for my 20-month-old to have tantrums?
A: Yes, tantrums are a normal part of development at this age. Your baby is becoming more independent and may get frustrated when they can’t do something or get their way. Stay calm, offer comfort, and set clear boundaries and consequences for unacceptable behavior.