Your little one just turned 1! It’s hard to fathom that a year has already passed since their arrival, bringing changes around every corner. It might feel like only yesterday you were learning to interpret their newborn cries and meeting their needs, while simultaneously taking care of yourself. But now, your newly minted toddler may be using signs, gestures, pointing, and even a few words to express themselves—and they might be on the verge of taking their first steps. Exciting times are ahead! Congratulations, mom!
Here’s what you can anticipate this month.
Sensory Activities for 12-Month-Olds
1. Crayon Fun
Set your baby down on the floor with some plain paper and a box of crayons. At this age, they’re likely to use the crayons for coloring rather than for tasting, although it’s reassuring to know that crayons are non-toxic in case they do take a nibble. Assist your little one in making scribbles and lines on the paper while naming the colors and creating playful artwork.
2. Counting Pasta
Cook a batch of shaped dried pasta and place a handful of the cooled noodles on your baby’s highchair tray. Help them count the different shapes as they move around the tray, a great way to enhance their pincer grasp in the process.
3. Bubble Fun
As your little one becomes more mobile, bubble play turns into an exciting adventure. Demonstrate how to purse their lips and blow air through the wand, allowing them to enjoy the tactile joy of popping those shimmering bubbles. Can they balance and take a step to reach for the big bubble?
Developmental Activities for 12-Month-Olds
1. Lift-the-Flap Books
With their developing pincer grasp, your child will find it easier (and more fun!) to lift flaps or turn the pages of a board book. Challenge them to locate the ball or find the hiding bear, and enjoy the sheer delight on their face when they make a discovery.
2. Puzzle Fun
Wooden puzzles can be incredibly engaging for tiny hands as your little one learns about shapes, colors, and hand-eye coordination. Assist them in fitting pieces back into their slots, rotating them as needed, and provide plenty of encouragement as they complete the puzzle.
3. Sing-Along Sessions
Engaging songs that incorporate gestures, such as “Pat-a-Cake” and “Open, Shut Them,” encourage your toddler to participate in music and movement, while also enhancing their gesture skills. Create a morning playlist for a delightful sing-along experience.
Activities to Enjoy with Your 12-Month-Old
Week 1: Nature Exploration
Venture outside for activities such as a leaf hunt, cloud watching, gathering pine cones, or casual bird watching. Participating in these simple joys while narrating the experience can help your child develop a connection with the natural world and appreciate its beauty.
Week 2: Dress-Up Adventure
Gather some hats, scarves, sunglasses, or seldom-used clothing items in a small box or basket to create a dress-up bin for your baby. Adding a costume piece can spark imaginative play and help your little one explore their growing creativity.
Related: A Nostalgic Look at Traditional Birthday Parties
Week 3: Create Mini Shakers
Fill an empty water bottle with rice, beans, or dried grains and securely glue the cap on. Making several of these shakers will give your child the tools to create their own rhythm during your next dance party.
Week 4: Sticker Excitement
Your little one may need assistance peeling stickers off their backing, but they’ll enjoy placing their favorite colorful designs onto paper or other surfaces. You can even utilize their newfound sticker skills to create cards for birthdays and holidays, filled with love.
Image Source: Ana Blazic Pavlovic / Shutterstock
