Education for Toddler

Raising - 13 months toddler

Your little explorer is getting more independent and curious by the day. She may have plucked up the courage to take her first steps on her own. If so, give her lots of applause. This will reassure her, and motivate her to keep trying out her new-found skill. Most 13-month-olds are able to grab a block and drop it into a container. Your toddler will have great fun with this, and will be happy to show you what she can do over and over again, as she loves repetition. Your toddler may even be getting skilled enough with her hands to scribble with a crayon. You’re officially well into the second year of your little one’s life! If the first year was a whirlwind, this one is full of many more exciting growth and developmental milestones. As your toddler's mobility improves — he may be cruising or walking independently now — he’ll be eager to explore the world around him. Expect him to get into plenty of places he shouldn’t (now’s a good time to childproof those kitchen cabinets!). And even though your toddler may not be saying much yet, he’ll still find plenty of ways to get his message across: by pointing at what he wants, tugging you by your pants legs into the kitchen, or grabbing your phone right out of your hands. Here’s what else you can expect from your 13-month-old toddler.

Questions you might have.

My toddler isn't walking yet, is it normal?

yes..Some children don't walk until 17 months or 18 months or even later. Whether she's crawling, shuffling or cruising around the room holding onto furniture, the important thing is that she is on the move. Your toddler no longer has to wait to be carried or pushed to get to where she wants to be. The world is opening up to her and that's exciting, but it can be a bit scary for her too. Stay close to your toddler in case her explorations mean she takes a tumble or gives herself a fright.

Should my toddler to be able to feed herself?

She probably thinks she can! Just as your toddler's legs are getting stronger, she's also getting more capable with her hands. Your toddler can pick up her spoon and will be making lots of mess as she tries to get her food somewhere near her mouth. As your toddler's play mostly involves experimentation, she's as likely to try new things with food as she is to see what a new toy can do. Your toddler is curious about the consequences of her actions: "What happens if I rub my fingers in the sauce?"

How well should my toddler be able to talk?

Your toddler has probably got the hang of "mummum" or "dada" and may be able to use one or two other words. That said, your toddler is a great communicator. She doesn't need much vocabulary to make her desires known. When she wants to get down, she'll point down. When she wants your attention, she'll tug your clothes. Your toddler is also understanding most of the simple language you use around her every day. Help your toddler to learn by talking to her as much as you can. Teach her to fix words to things by pointing out the names of everyday objects. Say the names and colours of fruits and vegetables as you handle them at the supermarket. Count stair steps as you climb them.

How much sleep does my toddler need?

All the exploring, growing and thinking your toddler is doing is tiring for her. She'll need to sleep for an average of 14 hours over a 24-hour period. About 11 and a half hours of this should be at night. This means your toddler still needs one or two daytime naps to ensure she gets enough sleep. Try to keep your toddler's sleep routine the same each day and night, even when you're away from home.