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Introduction
Congratulations! Your baby is now 15-18 months old and has come a long way since birth. At this stage, they are becoming more active, developing new skills and exploring the world around them. As a new parent, it can be overwhelming to keep track of your baby’s development and know what milestones to expect. That’s why we have put together this guide on baby development 15-18 months to help you navigate this exciting time.
Physical Development
Physical development is a crucial aspect of your baby’s growth during the 15-18 month period. At this stage, your baby is becoming more mobile and independent. They will crawl, walk, and run with more confidence and dexterity. Some babies may even start climbing stairs or furniture. You can encourage physical development by providing a safe and stimulating environment for your baby to explore. Ensure that the floor is clean and free of hazards, and allow your baby to play with toys that help them develop their hand-eye coordination.
Cognitive Development
Cognitive development refers to your baby’s ability to learn, reason, and understand the world around them. During the 15-18 month period, your baby will show signs of increased cognitive development. They will understand basic commands, such as “no” and “stop,” and may even start mimicking words and sounds they hear. Your baby will also show curiosity and interest in their surroundings, exploring objects and toys with more intent.
Language Development
Language development is a significant milestone during the 15-18 month period. Your baby will start communicating with you more effectively, using words and sounds to express themselves. They may start speaking simple words such as “mama” and “dada” and will understand more words than they can say. Encourage language development by speaking to your baby often, reading books, and repeating words and phrases.
Social Development
Social development is also an essential aspect of your baby’s growth and development during the 15-18 month period. Your baby is becoming more aware of their surroundings and the people around them. They will start showing affection, such as hugging and kissing, and may even start playing with other children. Encourage social development by introducing your baby to other children and allowing them to participate in playgroups and other social activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I be concerned if my baby is not walking at 15 months?
A: Not necessarily. Every baby develops at their own pace, and some may take longer to walk than others. However, if you are concerned, speak to your doctor or pediatrician for advice.
Q: How can I encourage language development?
A: Talking to your baby often, reading books, and repeating words and phrases can help encourage language development. You can also label objects around the house, such as “chair” and “table,” to help your baby learn new words.
Q: Is it normal for my baby to be clingy at this age?
A: Yes, it is normal for babies to be clingy at this age. As they become more aware of their surroundings, they may feel anxious and insecure when away from their caregivers. However, it is important to encourage independence gradually, such as allowing your baby to play alone for short periods.
Q: When should I start potty training my baby?
A: Every child is different, but most children are ready for potty training between 18-24 months. Look for signs that your baby is ready, such as showing interest in the toilet or expressing discomfort in a wet or soiled diaper.
Q: How much sleep does my baby need at this age?
A: Your baby should be getting around 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps. Ensure that your baby has a consistent sleep schedule and a comfortable sleeping environment.
Conclusion
The 15-18 month period is an exciting time for your baby’s development. Your baby is becoming more active, independent, and curious about the world around them. As a new parent, it is essential to provide a safe and stimulating environment for your baby to explore and grow. Encouraging physical, cognitive, language, and social development can help your baby reach their full potential. If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, speak to your doctor or pediatrician for advice.References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/infant-development/art-20048012
- https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/development-15-18m.html
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/development-milestones-12-to-18-months/