Wellness Blog

Childhood Health Milestones: What Every Parent Should Know 

There is a moment every parent knows well. You are watching your child, and a small worry quietly creeps in. Are they developing the way they should be? Why is that other child already walking when mine is not? Is it normal that my toddler is still not talking much?

In case you have thought these things to yourself, you are not alone. Every parent has. The matter of fact is that each child develops at his/her own speed. However, having an idea of the overall milestones and the time frames during which the majority of children attain particular skills can make you pat yourself on the back every time you win and address any worry at the earliest stage, when it will make the most significant changes.

Did You Know? Children who are provided with early intervention in developmental delays by the age of five years perform much better in language, learning, and social skills. Early detection is not the labeling of your child; it is just the provision of all possible advantages to your child.

The First Year: So Much Happening, So Fast

The only difference in 12 months is that your totally dependent baby turns into the one that starts to pull himself or herself up. At three months, babies are expected to lift their heads during tummy time. By 6 months, they should be rolling over and sitting with assistance. At the age of 9 months, a majority of the babies have started crawling, babbling, and identifying familiar faces. At age 12 months, they can stand, wave, and say "mama" or "dada"; they can already keep you so beautifully on your toes.

Ages 1 to 2: Walking, Talking, and Getting into Everything.

This is the point that will not only make you happy but also make you exhausted. The first independent steps are made at the age of 12-15 months in the majority of cases. At the age of 18 months, they are supposed to possess approximately 10 words. At the age of two, the majority of toddlers combine two words and simple instructions and use their fingernails to indicate what they desire. Let this be known, however: in case your child is not walking at 18 months and is not using at least 6 words by age 2, it would be worth visiting the pediatrician and reassuring yourself.

Did You Know? 

Average children utter the first word when they are about 12 months old; however, the range of 10–14 months is totally normal. What is more important is whether they are communicating with the help of gestures, eye contact, and babbling.

2-5 years old: Bigger Questions, Big Personalities.

At the ages of 2 and 5, the child gains rapid development in language, imagination, and social understanding. They start playing with other kids, sketching shapes, and demonstrating their moods and feelings with increased clarity. It is also the best time to instill healthy lifestyles, reading habits, playing in the open air, and eating habits that will keep them throughout life.

Vaccinations - Please Do Not Skip Them

Childhood immunization is one of the best ways to protect your child and the community. Adhere to your national immunization schedule and have all written records of your vaccines. In case you have any concerns about any vaccine, then discuss the matter with your pediatrician. You should not have any dumb questions about the health of your child.

Sleep and Nutrition: The Foundation of Everything

Growth does not simply occur around the time of meals but rather during sleep. Children aged 1-5 years require 11-14 hours of sleep in a day. Add that to a diet that is full of protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins, and you are providing their brain and body with the best possible foundation.

At GKNM Hospital, our paediatrics team is here not only when your child is unwell, but as a steady partner through every stage of their growth. Raising healthy children is a journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone.