Your toddler at 15 months
Oh my goodness, there’s so much going on and so little time. Sleep? Doesn’t that just in the way of her fun time?
What’s happening with your toddler?
By 15 months, she may have reached the following stages:
Dropping sleeps: It’s likely that she no longer wants to nap in the morning, but she still needs a good sleep after lunch of about 1.5 hours. She’s busy running round testing out those growing muscles, so you need to ensure she does not get overtired, or you may have problems settling her later at night time. She still needs a full night’s sleep of approximately 11 to 12 hours.
Walking and bending over: Although she still might not yet be walking, some little ones will be walking well at this stage, even able to bend over and pick up a toy. She will be able to potter round the playground, seeking new independence in her play.
Biting: Ouch! She gets frustrated and can’t explain why or wants some attention and thinks biting is a good option. Most little ones go through this phase at some stage, using it as a means of communication. As her verbal skills improve, the biting will lessen.
Using 2 words: She may now be putting two words together such as ‘mummy gone’ or ‘hat off.’ She communicates what she wants by pointing, babbling or shouting.
How you can help your toddler this month
Socialising: At this age, toddlers spend their time playing alongside each other rather than with each other. But now is a good time to take her to playgroups and other activities where she gets to interact with other toddlers. You may see a lot of pushing and grabbing, but over time, her social skills will develop and you will start to see more co-operative playing.
Your toddler’s health
Brush those teeth: It’s important to establish dental hygiene from a young age. If she’s still having a last drink of milk at night, make sure you brush her teeth before you put her down to bed. Look out for those new back molars which may now be coming through. Although she might object to brushing – make it a game that she can join in with. Let her hold and touch the brush and see the paste - she can brush your teeth while you do hers.
Play ideas for your toddler
Crayons: She will enjoy holding her own crayon and chunky wax ones are easy to grip, making a mark no matter how she holds them. She will love moving it from side to side – just the power of making coloured lines appear will enthral her.
Toddler music: She will now enjoy joining in simple songs and nursery rhymes. Music will help her to take pleasure in words and encourage her to try out sounds and rhythms. Finger games and action rhymes such as ‘Round and round the garden’ will also help her co-ordination.
Your child’s development may not be exactly the same as these descriptions since all children will develop at their own pace. This is an approximate guide of some of the new skills your little one may be developing. If you have any concerns, always speak to your health visitor or GP.
