Life with a toddler aged 19 to 21 months can feel like an exhilarating wave you’re riding — you take a deep breath, dive right in, and try your best to stay afloat while navigating their boundless energy. At this stage, your little one is likely running, jumping, climbing, and exploring every nook and cranny of your home, turning your life into a delightful yet chaotic experience.
These months are filled with sweetness as your child’s personality blooms, giving you countless opportunities to discover the amazing little human you’re nurturing. Here’s what to expect regarding your toddler’s growth and development during this exciting phase.
Growth and Development Milestones for Your 19 to 21-Month-Old Toddler
Weight Expectations:
Don’t worry if your toddler isn’t gaining weight steadily like they did as infants; growth tends to slow down significantly during this period. On average, children gain about 6 pounds and grow approximately 3 inches from their first to their second birthday. For reference, the typical weight for a 19 to 21-month-old girl is around 23.9 to 24.9 pounds, while boys weigh about 24.6 to 25.5 pounds. Keep in mind that each child is unique, and variations from these averages can be completely normal. If you have concerns, consult your child’s pediatrician at their next checkup.
Dietary Needs:
The battle against picky eating continues at the high chair! If you have a toddler who loves to eat, consider yourself lucky. Many toddlers at this age can be quite particular about their food choices. Aim for a balanced diet with three meals and two snacks daily. They require about 700mg of calcium, which can be met with roughly three 8-ounce cups of whole milk if they’re not getting enough from solid foods. It’s also recommended to include ¾ to 1 cup of fruits and vegetables, ¼ cup of grains, and three tablespoons of protein each day.
Sleep Requirements:
While you may face challenges with mealtime, there’s a positive aspect: your toddler is likely getting quality sleep. Most children this age need around 11 to 12 hours at night, in addition to 1.5 to 3 hours during the day, totaling about 13 to 14 hours of sleep daily. Night terrors can occasionally disrupt this sleep, where your child may wake up distressed but isn’t fully awake. During these episodes, provide comfort and keep your child safe until they settle back down.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Development:
Walking and Movement:
By now, your toddler should be walking confidently. They enjoy exploring their newfound physical abilities, engaging in activities like jumping, throwing, and dancing. It’s crucial to keep a close watch as they navigate their environment, as they are naturally curious and often put items in their mouths. Ensure your home is child-proofed to accommodate their adventurous spirit.
Language Development:
Your little one is probably starting to communicate more, with many toddlers able to say between 10 to 20 words, while some may even know 50 or more and begin combining words into phrases. If your child isn’t speaking much yet, consider discussing it with their pediatrician; it could be a hearing issue rather than a developmental one.
Behavioral Changes:
At this stage, your toddler is becoming more curious and assertive, which can lead to some challenging behaviors like biting or hitting. Remember, this is a natural part of their development as they explore ways to express themselves. It’s essential not to take these outbursts personally; they’re simply testing boundaries. If you’ve allowed screen time, be mindful that reducing it might trigger reactions, as experts recommend limited screen exposure for this age group.
Potty Training Readiness:
While most children aren’t fully ready for potty training until they’re 27 to 32 months old, some may show signs of readiness earlier. If that happens, feel free to introduce the concept of potty training, but be prepared for possible setbacks. You can also nurture their interest by reading board books about using the potty.
Health and Checkups:
You may not need to schedule a doctor’s appointment unless your child missed their 18-month checkup or has specific health concerns. However, keep an eye on any upcoming immunizations. During this time, the flu vaccine may be due, and a Hepatitis A shot could also be administered if it hasn’t been given yet.
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Summary:
Navigating the toddler years can be a whirlwind of activity and emotions. During the 19 to 21-month period, expect significant physical, social, and cognitive growth in your child. While they may become more independent and exhibit challenging behaviors, it’s essential to remember that these changes are a natural part of their development. Keep fostering their curiosity, provide a balanced diet, ensure adequate sleep, and stay engaged with their health and milestones.