Hey there, Super Mom! We hope you’re staying hydrated and stocking up on those vitamins, because you’re going to need all the energy you can muster. At the age of 16 to 18 months, your little one is a bundle of energy, constantly on the go—crawling, walking, climbing, and exploring their world. Each day brings new surprises (just wait until they figure out how to remove their own diaper!). But what a delightful stage this is, as your toddler’s personality blossoms and your bond deepens. Let’s dive into some key milestones you can expect during this exciting period.
Physical Growth and Nutrition: What to Expect
If you’ve noticed your toddler’s growth seems to have slowed down, don’t panic! Toddlers grow at a different pace than infants. According to the World Health Organization, typical weight ranges for 16 to 18-month-olds are about 21.6 to 23.4 pounds for girls and 23.2 to 24.1 pounds for boys.
Now, onto food. Your picky eater might be on a food strike or, conversely, demanding gourmet meals. This phase is completely normal as they discover their preferences. On average, your toddler should be consuming around 1,000 calories daily, ideally spread over three meals and two snacks. By this age, they should transition from purees to whole foods, so mash or finely chop a variety of fruits and veggies. Remember, a toddler’s portion should be about a quarter of an adult’s serving. For calcium intake, aim for three 8-ounce cups of whole milk each day. If you’re still breastfeeding, keep it going—you’re doing great!
Sleep Patterns: Rest for Everyone
Your energetic little one might wear you out during the day, but at night, they’re likely giving you a break. Most toddlers between 16 and 18 months need about 11 to 14 hours of sleep, including a couple of daytime naps. Ensure they’re not napping too late in the day (try to avoid naps past 4 p.m.) to help maintain a good nighttime routine.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Development
By 16 to 18 months, many toddlers are walking confidently, and some might even be running! They could be trying to climb stairs on their own, showcasing their growing independence. If you haven’t already, it’s time to double-check your baby-proofing measures.
On the language front, most toddlers are starting to say a few words, with a vocabulary ranging from 10 to 15 words. While they might learn one or two new words a month until 16 months, expect a potential language explosion around 18 months, where they could pick up as many as 10 new words daily. Some toddlers may start using simple sentences, like “Go play!” which is part of their attempt to assert independence. Just be prepared for a bit of bossiness during this phase!
Behavioral Milestones: Navigating Challenges
As your toddler asserts their independence, you might find them saying “no” more often, throwing temper tantrums, or exhibiting clinginess and stranger anxiety. And, yes, they might discover the joys of nose-picking and exploring their diaper—joyful times indeed!
Potty Training Readiness
While some toddlers are ready for potty training by this age, others may not show much interest. Watch for cues that indicate readiness, and remember that pressing the issue too early can lead to more challenges down the road.
Health Considerations: Teething and Doctor Visits
If your little one seems fussier than usual or points to their mouth, they might be teething. Most kids will get about one tooth per month once they start teething, and by this age, you may see their upper cuspids coming through.
At around 18 months, it’s time for a check-up with the doctor. They will assess your toddler’s growth and development, which may include screening for any delays. Make sure to ask any questions you might have! Additionally, your child may receive immunizations during this visit, depending on the schedule set by your healthcare provider.
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Summary
At 16 to 18 months, your toddler is a whirlwind of activity, learning, and self-discovery. With their unique personality shining through, they are walking, talking, and asserting their independence while navigating the world around them. As you support their growth and development, don’t forget to take care of yourself too!
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