As your baby heads toward his first birthday, he is increasing his understanding of language. To support this, it is important to involve your baby in the conversation! You can even narrate your day to your baby, he'll love it. Don't feel silly, its great fun once you start! But avoid using "baby talk"; he really wants to know the real words for things. Keep reading to your baby also. There is nothing quite like snuggling up and reading some books together. Even if he doesn't sit long for now, you are planting the seeds for a life of reading. You and your baby might also enjoy checking out the activities at your local library. Often libraries have baby story hour, as well as toddler times. It’s a great place to meet other babies and moms, as well as another wonderful way to encourage a love for reading.
By this time in your baby’s life, he is likely crawling, scooting, and possibly even walking! All of these milestones are hit at very different times, so it makes it easier if you don't compare your baby to others, he is an original! There are stories of babies getting around in different ways at many different ages. There are some who never crawled and only scooted all around, or skipped all that and didn't really go too many places, then all of a sudden stood up and walked one day! My youngest didn't actually walk until after he was one, but he could still follow his big brother anywhere, including up the ladder of their bunk bed! However they are doing it though, they are keeping you busy and on the alert!
Your baby's new found mobility opens up a whole new world for them, and also for us as parents. Childproofing is a must at this age. Babies don't need to hear us say "no" a million times a day. In addition to the common childproofing measures parents can take such as cabinet and toilet locks, corner cushions, outlet covers, etc, you can also make the choice to put up those special items until this time has passed. Maybe you can find a way to put your baby's toys on those lower shelves, and put the breakables away or out of reach. Also, if you have older children, it’s important to help them find out of the way places for their special things, so they don't have to protect their treasures from an innocently exploring baby sister. You also might choose to open up the main rooms a bit, maybe remove the coffee table all together, or put the kitchen bar stools away for a bit. It’s not a long period of time when you really look at it, and just think how much easier life will be when you are able to say "yes" more often!
Another thing you will need to be vigilant about now is setting limits. There are things that your baby needs to learn, such as how to pet the cat gently or that the stove is hot. The easiest thing is to be there with him in the moment, and if he tries to pull the cat's tail, you can gently take his hand and remind him that he should use "gentle touches". Then help him stroke the animal gently. He doesn’t know unless he is shown. And, be ready for lots of showing. Don't expect that he will remember how to pet the cat gently the next day, or even the next hour. It will be much easier if you try to remember that your sweet baby isn't really trying to be defiant, this is just how they naturally learn.
The first year is quite an amazing journey! There is so much physical and cognitive change going on each month. When you look back to where you were just a short year ago, it can be mind blowing! You had a new, helpless infant, and in 12 short months, you have a toddler that can move around on his own, knows what he wants, and works to get it! And, he will only keep surprising you! You will get to continue to watch this amazing being unfold, as he shows you more of his personality, his likes and dislikes, and is able to find the words to express it all. It truly is a blessing to be included!
