Oh, parent! Stay hydrated and keep up with your vitamins because you’ll need all the energy you can muster. Between 16 to 18 months, your toddler is a whirlwind of activity: crawling, walking, climbing, and even running! Each day brings new discoveries, some of which might test your patience (like when they learn to remove their diaper!). This stage is not only entertaining but also filled with opportunities for bonding as your little one’s personality flourishes.
Growth and Developmental Milestones for Your 16-18 Month Old
What’s the Average Weight?
If you’ve noticed your child’s growth seems to have slowed, don’t worry. Toddlers grow at a much slower pace than infants. According to the World Health Organization, girls typically weigh between 21.6 to 23.4 pounds, while boys average between 23.2 to 24.1 pounds at this age.
What Should They Be Eating?
Your picky eater might be entering a phase that feels like a food strike, but this is a normal part of development as they explore their preferences. At this stage, toddlers usually need about 1,000 calories per day, split into three balanced meals and two healthy snacks. Focus on whole foods, including various fruits and veggies, either mashed or finely chopped. Remember that toddler portions should be about one-fourth the size of an adult portion. Whole milk is essential for calcium; aim for about three 8-ounce cups daily. If you’re breastfeeding, keep it up—you’re doing great!
How Much Sleep Do They Need?
Despite their daytime energy, toddlers aged 16 to 18 months typically require about 11 to 14 hours of sleep daily, which may include two hours of napping. If your little one still enjoys daytime naps, try to ensure they don’t sleep past 4 p.m. to avoid disrupting their nighttime rest.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
Walking and Running
By now, most toddlers are walking, with some even running and attempting to climb stairs. It’s a good time to double-check your baby-proofing!
Language Development
At this age, many toddlers can say a handful of words—usually between 10 and 15. They may experience a language surge around 18 months, possibly picking up as many as 10 new words in a single day. It’s not uncommon for them to communicate in “telegraphic speech,” stringing together two words to express themselves, like “Go play!” This newfound ability can also make them a bit more assertive, and you might hear the word “no” more than you’d like.
Behavioral Changes
Alongside their growing independence, you may notice some challenging behaviors, including tantrums and clinginess. They might develop interests in activities like nose-picking or exploring their diaper.
Potty Training Readiness
While some children may show interest in potty training early, it’s essential to wait for signs of readiness. Pushing it too soon can lead to frustration for both of you.
Health Considerations for Your 16-18 Month Old
Teething Signs
If your toddler seems fussier than usual or points to their mouth, they might be teething. Around this age, children typically get about one tooth per month, with upper cuspids becoming more prominent.
Doctor’s Appointments
As your child approaches 18 months, it’s time for a check-up. The doctor will monitor growth metrics like weight and height and assess developmental milestones. They may also perform screenings for potential delays.
Immunizations
During this visit, your child may receive immunization boosters for diseases such as hepatitis B, diphtheria, and influenza, depending on their vaccination schedule.
For more insights on pregnancy and related topics, check out this article from our other blog post.
In summary, the 16-18 month stage is a lively period filled with significant growth in physical skills, language development, and social behaviors. Understanding these milestones can help you support your toddler’s journey as they explore their world.