Baby Growth from 8 to 12 Months

Tanya Altmann, MD: Get ready! From 8-to-12-months, babies go mobile – crawling, walking and showing off their independent streak – big time. We help you keep up – step by step. This is a period of rapid physical growth. As the old saying goes – in the blink of an eye – babies go from being well, babies, and head quickly toward toddler-hood. It starts with securely; sitting up; to the tripod pose; crawling; pulling up; standing and yikes, taking those most anticipated, first precious steps. There is no set time table for these big events. What is fairly certain is that most parents find it a test of nerves while watching wobbly wee ones find their own footing. First, be safe. Baby proof well in advance. Toys that encourage development – like push toys – are popular, but always, always make sure the choices are safe, study and age appropriate – and never turn your back. Hand and finger skills are progressing too. Babies begin to: poke; prod; pick up pieces with two fingers; bring objects together Look for hidden objects

Mom: Good Job Boo

Tanya Altmann, MD: Drop things in and out of containers

Mom and Baby: Oh you're take it out. Yeah you're so smart.

Tanya Altmann, MD: And the adorable but sometimes maddening game of repeatedly throwing down whatever their parents pick up. Play things need not be excessive or expensive. Start with simple items around the house. Look for a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and textures that can be used as building blocks and nesting cups. Then add large plastic balls, shape sorters, and toys that spin or open and shut.

Mom and Baby: Where's Emily? THERE she is ... where's Mommy? where's Mommy? There she is

Tanya Altmann, MD: Of course babies' best entertainment comes from YOU. Practice activities together. Play patty cake or peek-a-boo.

Mom and Baby: Here we go. There's are snake.

Tanya Altmann, MD: Infants approaching the one-year mark become more verbal. Watch and listen as they: attempt to mimic words.

Mom and Baby: There's a Gorilla Ooo. Ooo

Baby Says: Mmm Mmm

Mom: Good Job

Tanya Altmann, MD: Respond to simple requests

Mom: Thank you!

Tanya Altmann, MD: Shake their heads no

Mom: You don't want more?

Tanya Altmann, MD: And perhaps most anticipated of all: say mama and dada!

Baby: Da da da

Tanya Altmann, MD: Babies at this age crave conversation. Give a running commentary in a grown-up voice as you go about the daily routine.

Mom: now nana, cummmm

Tanya Altmann, MD: Reinforce words by repeating them. Wait to see if baby will try to imitate you and your so call conversation.

Mom: Hola, Hola Laurie

Tanya Altmann, MD: Continue reading out loud on a daily basis. Point to familiar objects and begin naming colors. Babies are now more social too. Interaction with siblings and other children begins to play an important role.

Mom: Gentle hands, ok see you later, see you later, ahhhhhhh

Tanya Altmann, MD: At the same time, babies may become clingy and show signs of separation anxiety. This is normal behavior and usually short-lived. Here are ways to reassure them when you need to be away:

Mom: Say Ma Ma

Tanya Altmann, MD: Offer comfort in a new environment by lingering a few minutes to play. time your departure to their happy moods – after feedings or naps

Mom: Bye bye bye bye baby crying

Tanya Altmann, MD: Have caregivers plan a distraction and make your goodbye brief

Day Care Worker: Nat up There's mommy

Tanya Altmann, MD: And try your best to come back when you say you will. As they reach up to greet you – be there to reach right back. They still need your special touch, so cuddle up close skin to skin.

Mom: Hi Hi Hi

Tanya Altmann, MD: Monitor these milestones carefully with your pediatrician – and know your love and attention are what matter most. Cherish this time together - they are growing up – step by step. For WebMD, I'm Dr. Tanya Altmann.