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Twelve to 24 Months

Toddler playing on jungle-gym

By now your child is very active! He may be beginning to walk and even talk. Here is a list of some things your child can do between 12 and 24 months. Remember, every child develops differently. Your child will grow at a rate that is right for him.

12 – 18 Months	18 – 24 Months (2 Years)
Walk by himself Pick up small objects, put them on top of one another, and put them in or dump them from containers Feed herself with a spoon Say 2 or 3 different words Point to things or pictures when named	Walk up and down stairs with her hand held Put 2 words together (“more juice”) Take off socks and shoes Copy another child’s play Move his body in time to music

Promoting Healthy Development

Bouncing, throwing and chasing balls help develop hand-eye coordination. Roll a ball towards your toddler and encourage her to toss it back to you!
Dancing to music and follow-along songs promote body awareness and balance.
Help your baby learn words. Point out people and objects and tell her who or what they are. Make this a routine. After your child becomes familiar with people and objects, ask her to identify them.

Fun Things To Do With Your Child

Take a swim class with your child. Some organizations offer classes for moms and babies.
Learn some simple sign language and teach it to your child. This is fun for you and also helps your child to communicate what they need without speaking or crying.
Go to the park or join a playgroup. Playing with other children in a safe environment helps communication skills and sharing.

Babies need to be active to develop appropriately. Do not keep infants in baby seats or other restrictive settings, such as strollers, baby swings, backpacks and slings for long periods.

Avoid putting your child in front of the TV!
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents avoid television viewing for children until at least age 2. Although certain television programs may be promoted to this age group, research on early brain development shows that babies and toddlers need direct interaction with parents and caregivers for healthy brain growth.