During the second year, your baby is developing a stronger sense of who they are and will learn new skills every day. Their world is the centre of the universe. They know what they like and dislike. This year they will become more and more active, guaranteed to keep you on your toes!
Health Checks
Your health professional may ask you to take your toddler for a general check up. Each visit gives you the opportunity to discuss parenting, family issues, your child’s health and development (like nutrition, breastfeeding, sleep, safety, behaviour, growth, hearing and vision). Even if you are sure your child is fine, it is a good idea to have the check up.
It is important you should maintain these check ups for your toddler with your health professional. Even if you’re sure your child is fine, these checks may uncover a problem while still in it’s early stages, which is the very best time to be put right. If you do have a concern, perhaps about your child’s sight or hearing, don’t wait for the check-up – call the above number or see your doctor, or other health professional, straight away.
Toddler Twins
Children develop at different rates… no more noticeably than in twins! One twin may talk early, the other much later. One may walk earlier than the other. Try not to compare their growth and development, just celebrate their differences.
Talking
Your toddler will go through many stages from babbling to talking. Listen , show interest in what your child is saying , respond as appropriately as possible and spend quality time reading books together. Repeat words or phrases they are not sure of – make it fun – that makes learning so much more enjoyable.
At around 12 months most babies:
- say one or two words, often ‘mama’ or ‘dada’
- can shout to attract attention
- may squeal with delight
- will know the meaning of several words, especially the word ‘No!’
- can understand simple instructions like, ‘Give the cup to mum’
- point to their nose, tummy or the dog when asked to
- use their phone to copy you!
During the second year most toddlers:
- learn many more words and try to copy your words
- join some of the words into simple sentences like ‘Drink gone’
- can learn and use their name
- enjoy singing or clapping along with simple songs and nursery rhymes – magic!
