Congratulations, your little one is now 18 months old! At this stage, your baby’s development is rapidly progressing. They have hit many milestones and are now starting to show their unique personality. Here’s what you can expect from your baby at 18 months development.
Table of Contents
Physical Development
Your baby is not a baby anymore. They are now a toddler, and this means that they are becoming more independent. At 18 months, your baby is likely walking or even running, which means that you need to keep a close eye on them. They are also developing better hand-eye coordination and can now turn book pages and hold crayons. Toddlers love to explore, so expect your little one to be on the move constantly.
Language Development
Your baby’s language development is one of the most exciting things to watch at this age. By 18 months, most babies can say at least five words and are starting to combine words to make simple sentences. They understand more words than they can say and can follow simple instructions like “pick up the ball” or “give me a hug.” Encourage them to talk by asking them questions and listening carefully to their responses.
Social and Emotional Development
Your baby is now starting to develop their own personality, and you will notice that they have their likes and dislikes. They will also start to show empathy, like when they offer you a hug if they see you crying. At 18 months, separation anxiety is common, which means that your toddler may become upset if you leave them with someone else. It’s important to reassure them that you will come back.
Cognitive Development
Toddlers are like little sponges, soaking up everything around them. They are curious about the world and love to explore. At 18 months, your baby is learning about cause and effect, which means that they understand that a certain action leads to a particular outcome. They are also starting to sort objects by color and shape and can recognize pictures of familiar objects and people.
FAQs About Baby at 18 Months Development
Q: When should my baby start talking?
A: Most babies say their first words between 10 and 14 months, but every child is different.
Q: How much should my 18-month-old weigh?
A: The average weight range for an 18-month-old is between 20 and 28 pounds.
Q: How many hours of sleep does an 18-month-old need?
A: Most toddlers need between 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps.
Q: Should I be concerned if my 18-month-old isn’t walking?
A: Every child develops at their own pace, but if you are concerned, talk to your pediatrician.
Q: Can I start teaching my 18-month-old ABCs and numbers?
A: Yes, but keep it fun and age-appropriate. Sing songs, count toys, and point out letters and numbers in books and on signs.
At 18 months, your baby is growing up quickly. Enjoy every moment of their development, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures and videos to capture these precious moments.
Related video of Baby at 18 Months Development
https://youtube.com/watch?v=C7O0U9OGHew