Child Development: Milestones your child should reach between 12-23 months

Age 1

Most parents see their child's first birthday as an important milestone as it marks the transition from baby to toddler. Your child will go through a period of rapid development in the 12 months between their 1st and 2nd birthday - and parents usually can't wait for their little one to learn to walk and talk. But remember that children develop at their own pace, so try not to compare your child with others.

The expert view

'Most children will take their first steps and say their first words by the time they are 18 months old,' says Geraldine Butler, who is a health visitor and author of Teach Yourself Successful Potty Training. 'Whether they are bottom shuffling, crawling or walking, many children will be mobile by their first birthday. This is the time to think about home safety, so that your child won't come to any harm as they explore your home.'

Physical changes

You can expect your child to go through some dramatic physical developments over the next 12 months, as they learn to walk, run and climb stairs. Improved muscle strength and balance mean that your child will probably be able to stand unsupported for a few moments soon after their first birthday.

Around this time they will also learn how to pick up small objects between their thumb and index finger. This is known as the 'pincer grip' and will make it possible for your child to feed themselves, scribble with a crayon and build towers of blocks.

Communication

Most children will be able to use 1 or 2 words by their first birthday, 6-20 recognisable words by the time they are 18 months old, and will have a vocabulary of around 50 single worlds by the time they turn 2. Around this time, they may also start to put two words together, such as 'Daddy work.' As understanding develops before speech, your child will probably be able to follow simple commands from the age of 12-18 months.

Emotional development

Your child needs lots of love and affection to make them feel happy and secure. They are likely to have several close attachments - to their parents, grandparents and perhaps a trusted childminder.

Despite this, many children struggle with your absence - and this can mean anything from returning to work, to going out for a few hours or even leaving the room for a minute or two.

This separation anxiety usually peaks at around 18 months, but it can continue beyond this, so be sure to give your child lots of attention until they adjust.

Learning

Young children learn though play, so it's important to give them lots of time to do this - even if it means repeating the same activity over and over again.

Don't be surprised if your toddler rejects expensive or complicated toys in favour of simple household objects. Banging on pots and pans, shaking containers filled with dried rice, pasta or beans or playing with building blocks or stacking cups can improve their ability to handle small objects and teach them about everything from sounds and colours to shapes and textures.

Social skills

The typical 1-year-old is happiest with his or her parents, and can be shy around strangers or people that they don't know well. Even more outgoing and confident children will look to your for comfort and reassurance, particularly in new or unfamiliar situations.

As your child approaches their 2nd birthday, they will start to show more interest in other children. However, don't be surprised if your child isn't keen on playing with other children straight away. It can take time to get used to being around others, particularly if your child is shy.

Challenges

Many children struggle with teething between the ages of 1 and 2. This can lead to disturbed sleep and can create problems with food if your child has a sore mouth.

If your child seems to be struggling, use teething gel or Calpol to ease any discomfort, and offer strips of chilled cucumber to help soothe their sore gums.

How to help

Children go through so many changes between their first and second birthdays that they will benefit from a good routine to help them feel safe and secure. Don't feel you have to set too many strict rules, but a simple bath, book and bed routine can help to prepare your child for a good night's sleep.

Louise O'Connell
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