Hey there, Mama! It’s essential to stay hydrated and keep up with your vitamins, because you’re going to need all the energy you can get. At 16 to 18 months, your little one is in perpetual motion: walking, climbing, exploring, and even running. Each day brings a new adventure, and with it, some less-than-pleasant surprises (just wait until they master the art of diaper removal!).
This is such an exciting time for both you and your child. Their personality is blossoming, and your understanding of each other is growing. Let’s dive into some notable milestones you can expect during this developmental phase.
Growth and Nutrition Milestones for 16-18 Month Olds
Weight Expectations:
If you’ve noticed your toddler’s growth seems to have slowed, don’t worry—this is typical. According to the World Health Organization, the average weight for toddlers in this age group ranges from 21.6 to 23.4 pounds for girls and 23.2 to 24.1 pounds for boys.
Dietary Needs:
Your toddler may be displaying signs of pickiness when it comes to food, which is completely normal at this stage. They should be consuming around 1,000 calories each day, ideally spread across three meals and two snacks. By now, you’re likely moving away from baby foods to whole foods, so focus on a variety of fruits and vegetables, either mashed or finely chopped. Remember, toddler portions should be about one-fourth of an adult’s serving size. Whole milk is crucial for their calcium intake, with about three 8-ounce cups a day recommended. If you’re still breastfeeding, keep it up!
Sleep Patterns:
While your toddler may be keeping you on your toes during the day, they typically provide some relief at night. Kids aged 16 to 18 months generally need about 11 to 14 hours of sleep, including a couple of hours for naps. Just be careful with nap times; avoid letting them snooze past 4 p.m. to prevent disrupting their nighttime sleep schedule.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
Walking and Mobility:
By the time they hit 18 months, most toddlers are confidently walking, if not running, and may even be attempting to climb stairs. This newfound mobility is a sign of their growing independence, so ensure your home is baby-proofed!
Language Development:
At this age, many toddlers can say a small number of words—around 10 to 15—and might even experience a significant language explosion around 18 months, acquiring up to 10 new words daily. While their speech might sound like gibberish to outsiders, you’ll likely have become quite adept at understanding them. They may also use “telegraphic speech,” linking two words together, like “Go play!” to express desires.
Behavior Insights:
Expect some behavioral challenges too. Your little one may frequently say “no,” throw tantrums, and exhibit clinginess or stranger anxiety. You may also notice them exploring their bodies in ways you hadn’t anticipated, such as picking their nose or examining their diapers.
Potty Training Readiness:
Every child is different when it comes to potty training. If your toddler isn’t showing interest, that’s okay! They’ll signal when they’re ready, making the process smoother for both of you. Pushing it before they’re ready could lead to frustration.
Health Considerations
Teething:
If your toddler has been a bit cranky or fussy, they might be teething. Children usually get about one tooth a month, and at this age, the upper cuspids are likely to come in.
Doctor Visits:
Once your child reaches 18 months, it’s time for their check-up. This visit will include tracking their growth metrics and screening for any developmental delays. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about their progress.
Immunizations:
Depending on your pediatrician’s schedule, this check-up may also include booster shots for various diseases, including hepatitis B and polio.
For more helpful information on parenting and home insemination, check out this post about artificial insemination kits. If you’re navigating the world of parenting, you might also find this resource on burping a sleeping baby useful. For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, visit WebMD.
In summary, your 16-18 month old is experiencing rapid development across physical, social, and cognitive domains. From walking and talking to navigating their emotions, this stage is filled with growth and exploration. It’s essential to support them while also taking care of yourself!