Amazing Milestones: 3 Skills Your 14-Month-Old Baby Is Mastering
Updated April 26, 2023.
As your baby grows into a toddler, their development becomes more noticeable. By 14 months old, your child is considered a toddler and will likely display distinct personality traits. You may notice flashes of independence, stubbornness, and sudden assertiveness.
So, what should a 14-month-old be doing? Your child is probably developing rapidly at this age, mastering new skills and exploring the world around them. The average weight for a 14-month-old is 20.7 pounds for girls and 22.3 pounds for boys. However, it's important to note that each child develops at their own pace, and some may be slightly ahead or behind these averages.
While most 14-month-olds are developing typically, there are some red flags to watch out for. These could include a lack of interest in people, difficulty with simple gestures like waving, and an inability to stand with support. If you have concerns about your child's development, it's always best to consult your paediatrician. They can offer guidance and reassurance tailored to your child's unique needs.
3 Skills a 14-Month-Old Is Mastering
- Language Comprehension
- Self-Feeding
- Walking
1. Language Comprehension
Language comprehension is crucial for a 14-month-old's growth. Most children say their first words between the ages of 10 and 14 months. At 14 months, your child may be able to utter up to six words, and they may understand far more than they can express. They will most likely be able to say "mama" and "dada," and they may try to name a sibling, a toy, or a pet. Every day, they discover the meaning of new words, which is an exciting moment for both parents and children.
To enhance language development, it's essential to actively engage with your child. Engage in conversations with them to help build their vocabulary. Ask them questions, comment on what they're doing, and narrate your daily activities to expose them to new words and phrases. You can also foster communication and language abilities through reading books, singing songs, and playing games.
2. Self-Feeding
At 14 months old, your child will be able to feed themselves with a spoon or their fingers and drink from a cup. Self-feeding is an important developmental skill for your child as it helps them develop independence and fine motor skills. To avoid accidents, invest in unbreakable dishes and cups as children start to self-feed.
Establishing an eating routine is one strategy to support self-feeding. Set regular meal and snack times so your child knows what to expect and when. This will also help them develop good eating habits as they grow. Give your child plenty of opportunities to practise. Let them experiment with new textures and flavours, and don't worry if they make a mess.
Another excellent method to encourage self-feeding is to provide finger foods. Cut soft fruits and vegetables into bite-sized pieces that your child can pick up and eat on their own. This will help improve their pincer grasp and hand-eye coordination. Lastly, demonstrate proper eating techniques to your child. Show them how to use utensils and encourage them to do the same.
The ultimate goals are to ensure that children receive adequate nutrition, eat safely, and gain confidence in their eating abilities. With these tips and plenty of practice, your child will become a self-feeding pro in no time.
3. Walking
At this age, your child is likely standing on their own and taking a few shaky steps without help. So don't be alarmed if their movements are still unsteady and they walk with their toes pointed outward. It's all part of the learning process.
It's wonderful to see your child's gross motor skills improve, and walking is an important ability that will enable them to explore their environment and gain independence. Keep in mind that every child develops at their own pace, so there's no need to worry if your child hasn't taken their first steps yet. With a bit of patience and encouragement, they will get there!
To support your child in practising walking, create a safe and open environment for them to explore. It's crucial to provide a secure setting where they can develop their confidence and coordination without the risk of injury. Before you know it, they might be racing around and investigating their surroundings!
Nurturing Your Child's Growth
Supporting your child's physical development, such as walking and other gross motor skills, is essential for their overall growth. One enjoyable way to encourage these skills is by introducing versatile ride-on toys, like the SmarTrike x Kelly Anna stroller trike. Designed for children between 6 months and 36 months, it fosters activity, outdoor play, and the development of motor skills.
Because it's so adjustable, the SmarTrike x Kelly Anna stroller trike can grow with your child, making it a practical option for parents. Furthermore, it provides a safe and comfortable experience with a cushioned seat and adjustable canopy, enhancing your child's outdoor adventures. It allows children aged around 14 months to explore and experience the outdoors in a secure and enjoyable manner while supporting their growth and development.
