Your baby’s physical development continues apace through the last months of his first year – moving from sitting through to taking his first steps, these are busy months indeed!
Developmental milestones include:
- By 10 months, he can move around by shuffling or crawling
- He can balance himself when sitting - he can reach out for an object without toppling over
- By 10 - 11 months, he can pull up to standing
- By 10 - 12 months, he can walk while holding an adult's hands
- By 12 months, he can pick up a small object by pincering his thumb and forefinger
What can I do to encourage his physical development?
- Give him lots of opportunities to get moving. Don't keep him restricted in a high chair, stroller or baby seat when he could be exploring and practicing his new skills.
- Roll a ball with him - he won't be able to return it but he'll enjoy chasing after it
- Give him a safe place to play indoors and outside
- Give him a kitchen cupboard that you can fill with toys and plastic kitchen ware that he can take out and put back in - he'll also enjoy opening and shutting the door.
Signs that suggest a developmental problem:
- By 10 months, he isn't able to sit without support
- He hasn't developed any way to move around independently
All children are different and develop at different rates, so don't be overly concerned if your baby is acquiring new skills at a different rate to those around him. But if you are worried about his development, talk to a health professional for a little reassurance.
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Last revised: Tuesday, 17 May 2011
This article contains general information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.