Month Twelve

Reviewed by: Dr. Travis Satnarine BSc. MBBS.

Can you believe it, where did that year go? Your baby is moving in his toddler stage, and as parents, you have done an amazing job.

Now it’s time to celebrate.                                                                                                                

Baby’s growth and development

Your one-year-old will weigh on average 21.9 pounds for boys and 21.3 pounds for a girl, with heights of 29.8 and 29.1 inches respectively. Babies grow at different rates so once the baby is healthy you don’t have to be concerned about weight and height.

As your baby is more aware of people and his surroundings, he may develop more fears and dislikes, comfort, and listen to your baby. Separation from parents, loud noises like those from motorcycles, the dark, and even things he previously had no problem with now scares him. You will have to get creative when it comes to calming the baby’s fears.

Your baby will be holding his sippy cup, taking steps more confidently if he is not walking already and he loves admiring himself in the mirror.

Health Care

After this visit to the pediatrician, doctor visits will slow down.

At the 12-month visit, the doctor will conduct the routine check. He will question you on the baby’s progress, if he is talking, walking, standing, understanding certain things, eating, sleeping, and socializing well. You will also be questioned on his hearing, teeth, vision and overall development.

The doctor will answer all those questions you have been writing down since the last visit.

This month also means more vaccines.

Vaccines: Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Yellow Fever.

Interesting things about Month 12

Your baby will take steps or walk towards you and he will probably be saying a few more words.

Look out for those baby tantrums and be sure to record them.

Advice for New Parents

Stacking games are fun now if you have not started yet, this is a good time to look up some games or buy some soft blocks for Baby.

Different textures are exciting for your baby. Let him play with some running water or touch the flowers in the garden, go to the beach so he can feel sand between his toes.

If you have already blocked every imaginable entrance and exit, already be sure to do it now, you have a toddler on the loose.

Remember this is your baby’s party month, while you are tempted to make it about you, it should be a  “kid-friendly.” Create a safe environment and let them have fun.

Reminders for this month:

• Take Baby’s one-year-old photo.
• Get lots of photos of the birthday party.
• Schedule Baby’s 15-month check-up.
• Ensure that car seats, are age-appropriate.