Skip to main content
mini mode

12 months milestones

by william samuels

happy first birthday! by 12 months, many babies are taking their first steps (or about to), saying a few words, and showing a real personality. the range of 'normal' is huge at this age.

physical milestones

•pulls to stand and may stand alone

•may take a few steps without holding on (or may not walk until 15–18 months — both are normal)

•uses pincer grasp confidently

•bangs two objects together

•puts objects into and takes them out of containers

cognitive milestones

•explores objects in many ways (shaking, banging, throwing, dropping)

•finds hidden objects easily

•looks at correct picture when an object is named

•imitates gestures (waving, clapping)

•begins to use objects correctly (drinks from a cup, brushes hair)

social & emotional milestones

•is shy or nervous with strangers

•cries when parent leaves

•has favourite things and people

•shows fear in some situations

•hands you a book to be read to

•repeats actions to get attention

language & communication

•says 1–3 words (mama, dada, and possibly one other)

•uses simple gestures like shaking head 'no' or waving bye-bye

•tries to say words you say

•responds to simple spoken requests

red flags to watch for

talk to your GP or child health nurse if your child:

  • •doesn't crawl or can't stand when supported
  • •doesn't point to things
  • •doesn't learn gestures like waving or shaking head
  • •doesn't search for objects that are hidden while watching
  • •doesn't say any single words
  • •loses skills they once had

tips for this age

  • •read books together every day — point at pictures and name them
  • •encourage walking by holding hands or using push toys
  • •don't compare to other babies — the normal range is wide
  • •keep up with immunisations at 12 months (MMR, meningococcal)

previous

9 months

next

18 months

view all age milestones

from 3 months to 5 years

this information is based on general developmental guidelines from the CDC and Raising Children Network. every child develops differently — these are guides, not checklists. if you have concerns, consult your GP or child health professional.