Congratulations, your little one is now 1 year and 9 months old! At this age, your baby is developing a lot of new skills and abilities. They are becoming more independent, social, and curious about the world around them. Here are some things you can expect during this exciting stage of your baby’s development:
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Physical Development
Your baby is probably walking, running, and climbing with confidence by now. They may also be able to kick a large ball, jump with both feet, and climb up and down stairs. At this age, your baby is also developing fine motor skills, such as the ability to use a spoon and fork, scribble with a crayon, and stack blocks. They may also be able to turn book pages one at a time and use their fingers to point at objects.
Language Development
Your baby is likely saying several words and can understand many more than they can say. They may use single words to label people, objects, and actions, such as “Mommy,” “Daddy,” “dog,” and “eat.” They may also be able to follow simple directions, such as “Come here” or “Give me the ball.” Your baby is also learning more about grammar and sentence structure and may start to combine two or three words together, such as “more milk” or “big doggie.”
Social and Emotional Development
At this age, your baby is becoming more social and curious about other people. They may enjoy playing alongside other children, although they may still prefer to play alone. They may also be more affectionate and enjoy hugs and kisses. Your baby is also learning about emotions and may start to show more empathy and understanding of others’ feelings. They may also start to assert their independence and may have tantrums when they don’t get their way.
Cognitive Development
Your baby is becoming more curious about the world and loves to explore and discover new things. They may enjoy books with lots of pictures and may start to ask questions about what they see. Your baby is also developing problem-solving skills and may be able to figure out how to get a toy that is out of reach or how to put together a simple puzzle. They may also start to understand cause and effect, such as realizing that pushing a button makes a toy light up or play music.
Sleep and Nutrition
Most babies this age sleep around 12 hours a day, including one or two naps. They may also start to develop more regular sleep patterns and may sleep through the night more consistently. Your baby’s appetite may vary from day to day, but they should be eating a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. They may also start to show preferences for certain foods and may be less willing to try new things.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many words should my baby be saying at 1 year 9 months?
Every baby develops at their own pace, but most 1 year 9 month olds can say about 10-20 words and understand many more. If you are concerned about your baby’s speech development, talk to your pediatrician.
What should I do if my baby has a tantrum?
Tantrums are a normal part of development, but they can be frustrating for parents. Try to stay calm and patient, and offer comfort and reassurance. It’s also important to set clear boundaries and rules, and to follow through with consequences when necessary. If your baby’s tantrums are severe or frequent, talk to your pediatrician.
How much should my baby be eating at 1 year 9 months?
Every baby has different nutritional needs, but most 1 year 9 month olds should be eating about 3 meals a day, plus 1-2 healthy snacks. Offer a variety of foods and let your baby decide how much they want to eat. Avoid using food as a reward or punishment.
When should my baby start potty training?
Every baby is different, but most are ready to start potty training between 2 and 3 years old. Look for signs of readiness, such as staying dry for longer periods of time, showing interest in the potty, and being able to follow simple directions. Talk to your pediatrician for more guidance.
How can I encourage my baby’s development?
The best way to encourage your baby’s development is to provide a safe, stimulating environment where they can explore and learn. Offer plenty of age-appropriate toys, books, and activities that challenge and engage them. Spend time playing with your baby, talking to them, and reading to them. And don’t forget to offer plenty of love, hugs, and encouragement!
Your baby’s development during the first few years of life is a remarkable journey filled with many exciting milestones. Remember to enjoy this time and celebrate your baby’s achievements, both big and small!