7–12 months: Growing into independence

Between 7 and 12 months, your baby takes new steps toward independence, building on the skills they have been developing since the earlier months.

Every baby has their own rhythm of development, and new skills may appear at different times. What matters is the progress you see as your baby grows and explores. If you are concerned about development or your baby loses a skill, speak with your baby's healthcare professional. For babies born early, ask how corrected age applies.

Continue safe sleep practices. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in a clear, firm, flat space. As they start moving around more, keep their play area safe and keep small objects and other dangers out of reach.

Moving, Crawling & Standing

Growing strength and balance may help babies sit steadily, start crawling or scooting to get where they want to go, and begin pulling up to stand. By around 12 months, some babies may take their first steps while holding on or even try a few steps on their own.

How you can help

Give your baby open floor space to practice moving, and keep furniture stable for pulling up and cruising. Stay nearby to offer a hand and let them practice at their own pace.

Baby exploring a sensory ball with both hands

Grasping, Picking Up & Exploring

Growing hand control may help babies pass objects between their hands, banging and shaking toys, and picking things up with more control. They may also begin using their thumb and finger to pick up smaller objects.

How you can help

Offer safe finger foods and age-appropriate objects for your baby to practice picking up and exploring. Let them bang, shake, drop, and explore objects at their own pace as they discover how things work.

Finding, Discovering & Figuring Things Out

As babies explore, they are learning that things still exist even when they can't be seen. They may search for a toy hidden under a blanket, watch as something drops, or put objects into containers and take them back out.

How you can help

Play simple hiding games, like tucking a toy under a cloth and asking, “Where did it go?” Offer containers and safe objects for your baby to fill, empty, and explore. Let them take the lead and figure things out at their own pace.

Understanding, Gestures & First Words

Communication starts to take on new forms. Babies may respond to their name, imitate sounds, use simple gestures like waving, and begin understanding familiar words. Some babies may also start saying a few meaningful words during this stage.

How you can help

Talk to your baby throughout the day, using simple words and gestures. Respond to their sounds and gestures as part of a real conversation. Encourage every attempt to communicate, whether it's a sound, gesture, or word.

Playing, Connecting & Expressing

As babies become more interested in people, they may become more attached to familiar people and show more interest in being close to you. They may express themselves through laughter, cries, and squeals and start imitating actions like waving or clapping. Games like peek-a-boo can become a favorite way to play and connect.

How you can help

Keep familiar routines and reassure your baby during separations. Play simple interactive games like peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake, and respond warmly to their sounds, gestures, and emotions.