Updated May 2nd 2023
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10
min read
Medically Reviewed By
Board Certified Pediatrician & Lactation Consultant
As your baby reaches the 14-month mark, you may notice an exciting array of developmental milestones. Your child may be confidently walking or still gathering the courage to take their initial steps. It is normal for them to experience occasional stumbles, falls, or tumbles, as depth perception and coordination take time to develop. You may also notice that your child comprehends more of your verbal communication and may display persistence in engaging with a preferred activity, even when bedtime approaches. Understanding these milestones can be incredibly helpful for parents, as they provide insight into the physical, cognitive, and emotional growth of your little one. In this article, we will discuss the key developmental milestones for 14-month-old babies and offer tips to support your child's growth.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
At 14-months, the recommended sleep time is approximately 12 to 14 hours per day. This will be split as at least 11 hours at night and 2-3 hours during the day, over 1 or 2 naps. It is common at this stage to transition to a single daily nap, and by 15 months, most babies will have transitioned to 1 daily nap, around 2.5 hours long. To maintain healthy sleep habits, establish a consistent bedtime routine, provide a comforting sleep environment, and address any sleep issues as they arise.
The onset of walking in your 14-month-old might lead to difficulties settling down for naps or bedtime due to their enthusiasm for exploring their surroundings on two feet. You may notice that your child resists bedtime or practices walking within their crib. This behavior is completely normal; your toddler is simply thrilled by their newfound mobility.
1. Before bed, you can go into more “quiet playtime”, focusing on activities that do not involve walking or vigorous movement. This can help them gradually transition from an active state to a more relaxed one.
2. Limit screen time before bed: Exposure to screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Avoid screen time at least an hour before bedtime to help your child fall asleep more easily.
3. Establish a consistent bedtime routine: Implement a calming and predictable routine before bedtime . This helps signal to your child that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Create a soothing sleep environment: Ensure your child's sleep space is comfortable, quiet, and free of distractions. Use blackout curtains and a noise machine to help block out external stimuli.
4. Be patient and consistent: Understand that your child's excitement over their newfound ability to walk is temporary, and with time, they will likely return to a more regular sleep schedule.
To help monitor your 14-month-old's nap and sleep schedule , consider downloading the Smart Sleep Coach app by Pampers. Developed in collaboration with pediatricians and sleep experts, this app helps parents create healthy sleep habits , implement sleep training methods , and addresses specific challenges such as sleep regression.
At 14 months, your baby's sleep needs may change slightly as they continue to grow and develop. It is important to be aware of these changes and make any necessary adjustments to their sleep schedule. Here are some key aspects to consider:
At 14 months, the average weight and height for boys and girls can vary slightly. Keep in mind that these values are just averages, and each child's growth is unique, but based on World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts:
Girls weigh on average 21.2 pounds (9.6 kg) and average height is 30.1 inches (76.5 cm).
Boys weigh on average 22.5 pounds (10.2 kg) and and average height is 30.7 inches (78 cm).
Remember that growth trajectories can differ among children. It's essential to focus on your child's individual progress and avoid comparing them to others. Genetics, nutrition, and overall health can all impact a child's growth rate. Some children may experience growth spurts, while others may grow more gradually over time. Your pediatrician will monitor your child's growth and development at regular check-ups and can provide personalized guidance based on their unique growth patterns.
At 14 months, your baby's gross motor skills are advancing rapidly. They may be able to:
You child will also be developing their hand-eye coordination and finer motor skills, with such as pincer grasp, stacking objects, turning pages, and even scribbling around with colored pencils.
By engaging in creative play, using age-appropriate toys, and reading together, you’ll offer plenty of opportunities for your child to develop their gross and fine motor skills at 14-months-old.
Remember that each child develops at their own pace, and it is essential to be patient and supportive while allowing them to explore and learn at their own speed.
At this age, your child is developing a greater sense of self-awareness and independence. As their understanding of the world around them expands, they may:
One aspect of your 14-month-old's development is their social and emotional growth. Providing opportunities for your child to interact with others, such as arranging playdates or attending group activities, helps them develop essential social skills and understanding of social cues. Encouraging empathy and compassion in your child, by talking about emotions and teaching them how to respond to others' feelings, can also contribute to their emotional development.
At the same time, fostering independence in your toddler is crucial. Allowing them to make simple choices, such as selecting which toy to play with or what to wear, can help them build confidence and a sense of autonomy. By creating a supportive environment that encourages both social interactions and personal growth, you can help your child develop the emotional intelligence and independence they need to thrive.
At 14 months, a baby may walk independently or with support, use simple words, follow simple instructions, show affection towards familiar people, and develop fine motor skills like stacking blocks or using utensils. Keep in mind that each child's development is unique, and milestones may be reached at slightly different times.
A 14-month-old may have a vocabulary of 5-10 words, including "mama," "dada," "no," "yes," and names of familiar objects or people. Language development varies for each child, so continue to encourage their progress by talking and reading to them daily.
A typical 14-month-old may show increased independence, curiosity, and attachment to caregivers. They may experience separation anxiety and express frustration through tantrums. Supporting their social-emotional development is essential at this stage.
By 14 months, your baby may reach milestones like walking independently or with support, using simple words, understanding and following simple instructions, showing affection towards familiar people, and developing fine motor skills like stacking blocks or using utensils.
Most 14-month-olds transition to a single daily nap lasting around 1.5 to 3 hours. They'll still need 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day, including night time sleep.
Red flags at 14 months may include not walking or attempting to walk, showing no interest in communication or social interactions, not responding to their name, or having difficulty understanding simple instructions. Consult a pediatrician if you have concerns about your child's development.
A 14-month-old should eat a variety of solid foods, including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains. Offer a balanced diet to support their nutritional needs and encourage self-feeding with child-safe utensils. Be patient and flexible with their individual food preferences.
American Academy of Pediatrics. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 7th ed. (New York: Bantam Books, 2019).
American Academy of Pediatrics. The Wonder Years. (New York: Bantam Dell, 2006).
