It's hard to believe your little one is almost a toddler. Where did the first year go?
Your baby has changed so much since birth, and there are lots of big and lovely changes on the way.
Here are some of the biggest milestones babies typically experience in the weeks leading up to their first birthday.
Mobility
Your little one is so excited to show you how they can crawl, then before you know it, he or she will be pulling themselves up, standing and soon taking their first steps. Gone are the days when you can safely put your baby in the middle of the bed and get dressed. Now he or she is on the move, either on all fours or taking a wobbly toddle around. On the bright side, baby’s new found mobility makes some things easier too; you don't have to carry him or her everywhere, so your back is bound to feel a little relief.
Self-feeding
Your little one is getting more food on the floor and their face than their mouth, but isn't it adorable to watch them try to feed themselves? The good news is, he or she is ready to try a lot of the same foods the rest of the family is eating. Still, your baby will require close supervision while eating, as safety is a big concern now. Experts advise mums to cut all food into half-inch pieces to prevent choking. You'll also want to wait to introduce your baby to certain foods, such as honey, egg whites and nuts, until after his or her first birthday.
Language
With their baby language and babbling, your little one is now doing more than crying to communicate their needs - which can be lovely to hear and watch. Some babies say their first official word by age one, but don't fret if your tot doesn't. Baby milestones are achieved over a broad range of time, especially when it comes to language development. Talk to your paediatrician if you have any questions or concerns.
Sleep
Baby may drop his or her morning nap sometime after their first birthday, usually between 15 and 18 months. The end of the morning nap may happen earlier. This can be a tough adjustment for everyone, especially mum! But look on the bright side: If he or she naps less during the day, they may sleep longer at night.
Engagement
As your child approaches his or her first birthday, you will notice they are much more engaged in what is going on around them. When the doorbell rings, your little one might perk up and look toward the sound to see what it is. When you walk into the room, he or she might clap their hands in excitement and smile. A few months ago, he or she might have slept through anything. Isn't it lovely to watch your baby become such an eager participant in their daily life?
Demands
Now is the time when your baby’s little personality is emerging, and they are developing ideas about what they want to do and what they like. He or she may wiggle in glee when a certain song comes on or refuse to eat a certain type of food. This is all part of the development of your little one.
Separation anxiety
This is a normal part of baby development. Around eight months of age, many babies will begin to experience stress when separated from a parent. This stage can last well into your little one's second year of life. Of course, seeing your baby's upsetting reaction to your departure can be just as hard on you. But don't let tears deter you from leaving. As long as you are leaving your baby in capable hands, all will be okay.
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