Normal Development: 12 Months Old

Each child is unique. While some behavior and growth milestones tend to happen at certain ages, a wide range for each age is normal. It is okay if your child reaches some milestones earlier and others later than the average. If you have any concerns about your child's development, check with your healthcare provider. Here's what you might see your baby doing between 12 months and 15 months old.

Emotional

• Shows more negative behavior, for example, may resist naps, refuse certain foods, or throw occasional tantrums.
• May give up something on request.
• Has developed a deep attachment to a few familiar people.
• Loves to make parents laugh.

Social

• Continues to prefer people to toys.
• Says a few words ("mama", "dada", "ball", "dog").
• Is less anxious about strangers.

Mental

• Usually has a definite daily pattern.
• Expresses complete thought with single syllable ("da" means "I want that").
• Understands a few simple words.
• Loves rhythms and rhymes.
• Usually examines an object before putting into mouth.

Physical

• Likes to feed self.
• Usually walks with assistance; may walk without assistance (wobbly at first).
• Crawls rapidly.
• Stands alone.
• Seats self on floor.
• Opens cabinets, pulls tablecloths.