Baby Development Guide for Baby’s Twelfth Month (weeks 48-52)

Congratulations- you have made it through your first year of parenting your new baby! At the rate your child has physically grown over this past year he would weigh one ton by age five. Fortunately his growth rate significantly pulls back and he will grow at a steadier rate going forward.

Physically your child might not show an interest in learning how to walk (if he is not already walking), but this is okay. Each child learns at a different pace so some children might want to learn the entire skill before moving on to the next skill. Now is a great time to buy him those pushing toys so he can practice the skill with a fun and safe toy.

He might also lose weight around this time, but this is quite normal. Weight loss can be due to a number of reasons including his newly found food preferences (he will not eat everything you put in front of him anymore!) and his increase in exercise. The average height for a one year old child is 28-32 inches while the average weight is 18-24 pounds.

She will take interest in imitating your every move. She sees what you do and wants to be like you, so take it as a compliment!

During this time she will probably also experiment with new behaviors including some bad behaviors (ever heard of regressive behavior?). You might even have the joy of experiencing the feared toddler tantrum. She has gained a sense of independence, so tantrums should come as no surprise. Simply let her throw the tantrum, calmly waiting until she is done. Then when she is done, coolly but firmly correct her behavior and explain why it is unacceptable. Soon enough she will realize that tantrums "do not work" and she will give them a rest.

Make sure you leave room for your toddler to explore and go on adventures often without "cracking the whip" and correcting every behavior. Try to only discipline when it is absolutely necessary.

She will likely enjoy mimicking your sounds and noises. Keep in mind most children should speak one to two words by the end of the first year (although ours was already saying phrases!).

By now you might have realized that she reacts differently to dad than she does to mom. This is likely due to the way each of you treat her- she might view mom as more of the nurturer and run to her when she has a "boo boo" whereas dad is seen as more of a physical rough-houser.

He has a clear understanding of the word "no" now although he will often return to the same off-limits habits, behaviors and objects even after repeated corrections. Stay patient with him; this stage will pass. In the mean time you are teaching him about the importance of personal boundaries.

In the years to come your approach to parenting will need to stay the same in some areas and transform with the times in other areas. For instance, your child will always need you to lovingly and caringly interact with them but the actual way that takes place will change based on your child’s age. With a solid year of parenting behind you (and one of the most challenging years, no less!) you probably have more experience than you think you have as a parent. Continue to love on your child no matter his or her age and you will likely have a child who adores you and will responsibly contribute to society for the rest of their life.

For these and more great tips and for tons of parenting freebies, visit http://www.birthannouncements4baby.com/yearone