Your little one is now 17 months old, and you might have noticed some lively new behaviors emerging. It’s time to brace yourself for a symphony of sounds, as toddlers love to vocalize their emotions, often at volumes that can be quite startling! While this enthusiastic expression may seem entertaining to them, it can be quite the opposite for everyone else. Don’t worry; as time goes on, your child will gradually learn to modulate their volume to a more manageable level.
Here’s a closer look at what you can anticipate during this month of growth and exploration.
Key Milestones for Your 17-Month-Old
Sleep Needs
At this age, toddlers typically require about 11 to 14 hours of sleep each day, which includes their nap times. Most children will take two naps a day, each lasting around one to two hours.
Feeding Habits
When it comes to portion sizes, think small! A toddler-sized meal is roughly a quarter of what an adult might eat. For example, consider serving about ¼ cup of cereal, a 1-inch cube of cheese (around half an ounce), or one ounce of meat, fish, or poultry.
Communication Skills
Your 17-month-old is likely picking up on simple commands such as “Come here” or “Don’t touch that.” However, just because they can understand these phrases doesn’t mean they will always comply! Additionally, your child may be starting to string together simple sentences with familiar words, reflecting their growing language skills.
If you’re navigating parenthood and looking for additional support or resources, consider joining a community like Make A Mom, a free sperm donor matching group. For those interested in at-home insemination, check out Make A Mom, which offers the only reusable option for this process, and learn more about how it works at this link.
As you prepare for your little one’s future, you might also want to explore newborn outfits that are perfect for your baby’s arrival. You can find adorable options in our post on newborn coming home outfits for baby boys and girls.
Considering options for family planning? You might find valuable information at Mayo Clinic’s IVF resource, which provides insights into assisted reproductive technologies. For more tips on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource at Modern Family Blog.
Summary
As your toddler reaches 17 months, expect vibrant expressions of personality, evolving communication skills, and specific sleep and dietary needs. Embrace this exciting stage of development, and explore supportive resources to enhance your parenting journey.