Congratulations, Mama — you’ve successfully navigated the first year of your little one’s life! But don’t relax just yet; your baby is now a full-fledged toddler, and they’re about to bring a whirlwind of activity into your life. Get ready to capture those precious moments with your camera because the adventure is just beginning. Here’s what you can expect from your 13 to 15-month-old toddler in terms of development and growth milestones.
Growth and Development Milestones
How Much Should Your Toddler Weigh?
Your little one is on the move! As per the World Health Organization, typical weight ranges for this age group are between 20.2 and 21.2 pounds for girls and 21.8 to 22.7 pounds for boys. Don’t stress if your child’s weight isn’t exactly within these numbers; as long as they’re steadily gaining weight, they’re likely doing just fine.
What Should They Be Eating?
If you’re still breastfeeding, continue to feed on-demand — your toddler will signal when they’re hungry or full. If they’re still consuming baby food or formula, now’s the time to transition to whole foods and whole milk. Milk is crucial for providing the essential fatty acids necessary for growth, but it should be part of a balanced diet. Aim to provide about 1,000 calories a day, divided into three meals and two snacks, with a variety of food groups. Encourage self-feeding, even if it means a bit more mess for you to clean up!
How Much Sleep Does Your Toddler Need?
You may have noticed that sleep is becoming a more familiar friend lately! Toddlers aged 1 to 2 typically require around 11 to 14 hours of sleep each day, often sleeping through the night or at least in longer stretches. Some may still take two naps, while others might have already cut back to just one. If your toddler wakes up frequently at night, it could be due to active dreams or teething discomfort. If this becomes a recurring issue, consult your pediatrician for guidance.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Skills
Walking Milestones
Is your little one walking yet? If so, you’re probably getting a workout chasing after them! By 15 months, about half of toddlers can walk confidently, and some may even experiment with running or walking backward. If your child isn’t walking yet, don’t panic — many healthy toddlers don’t take their first steps until around 18 months. They should, however, be pulling themselves up and cruising along furniture.
Talking Skills
At this age, your toddler is likely starting to communicate, even if it’s mostly babble (think “babababa” or “mamama”). Just like walking, the pace of language development can vary. Most children this age can say at least one word, with about half able to say two words, and some even up to six or more by 15 months. They should also recognize family names and respond to their own name. Keep your pediatrician informed about your child’s language progress, as early intervention can be beneficial.
Behavioral Challenges
While the infamous “terrible twos” are on the horizon, you might get a sneak peek at this age. Tantrums can occur as toddlers navigate their growing independence and frustrations in communication. Around 15 months, you might notice new behaviors like throwing things. Remember, this is usually a phase, and you can help by setting clear rules and distractions.
Potty Training Readiness
Most toddlers at this age are still more focused on walking and talking than on potty training. According to the Mayo Clinic, many kids show readiness between 18 and 24 months. If your toddler displays signs of readiness, such as staying dry for a couple of hours or expressing interest in the toilet, you can start introducing potty training. But let your child lead the way.
Health and Check-ups
At 15 months, it’s time for a well-child check-up. This visit usually includes standard measurements and a physical exam, along with a discussion about your child’s development. Depending on their immunization schedule, your toddler may receive booster shots for several diseases, ensuring they remain protected. Don’t forget to schedule their next appointment around 19 months and consider setting up a dental visit if that hasn’t been done yet.
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In summary, your 13 to 15-month-old toddler is hitting significant milestones in physical movement, language, and social skills, while also navigating the early stages of independence. Keep these tips in mind as you support their growth!
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