Navigating life with a toddler aged 19 to 21 months can feel like riding a wave — you take a deep breath, dive in, and keep moving as you learn to maintain balance. Your little one is likely walking, climbing, running, and jumping, providing you with quite an exhilarating parenting journey. With their personality blossoming, each day offers a new opportunity to connect with this delightful little human you’ve raised. Here’s what you can expect from your toddler during this stage of development.
Growth and Developmental Milestones
Weight Expectations for 19 to 21-Month-Olds
Don’t worry if your toddler isn’t gaining weight as consistently as they did in infancy. Growth tends to slow down significantly during this period, with most children only gaining an additional 6 pounds and growing about 3 inches between their first and second birthdays. Typically, a girl in this age range weighs between 23.9 and 24.9 pounds, while boys average from 24.6 to 25.5 pounds. Remember, every child is unique, and variations from these averages are normal. If you have concerns, consult your pediatrician during your next visit.
Nutrition for Active Toddlers
Feeding a picky eater? You’re not alone. Aim for three meals and two snacks daily, and remember that toddlers need around 700mg of calcium. If they aren’t getting enough from food sources, consider three 8-ounce cups of whole milk. As a general guideline, they should consume about ¾ to 1 cup of fruits and vegetables, ¼ cup of grains, and three tablespoons of protein each day.
Sleep Patterns in Toddlers
While you deal with mealtime challenges, it’s good to know that your toddler is likely getting sufficient sleep. Most children this age need about 11 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep, plus 1.5 to 3 hours during the day, totaling 13 to 14 hours. Night terrors may occur, which can be distressing; these episodes involve a child waking up upset but not fully awake. Providing comfort and ensuring safety is crucial during these moments.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
Walking and Movement
At this stage, your toddler should be walking confidently and exploring their physical capabilities with activities like jumping and climbing. Keep a watchful eye, as they may be inclined to pick up small objects and place them in their mouths. Make sure your home is childproofed to accommodate their newfound agility.
Language Development
Your little one may be chatting away by now, with most toddlers able to say 10 to 20 words, while some even exceed 50 and can combine words into simple phrases. If your child is not speaking as much as you would expect, it might be worth discussing with your pediatrician to rule out any hearing issues.
Behavioral Insights
With newfound curiosity comes a range of behaviors. Your toddler may express themselves through hitting, biting, or other “bad behavior” as they test boundaries and assert independence. This is a normal part of development, so try not to take it personally. They may also react negatively if you limit their screen time, which should ideally be under an hour a day, preferably with educational content.
Potty Training Readiness
While most children aren’t ready to begin potty training until 27 to 32 months, some may show signs of readiness earlier. If your toddler is demonstrating interest, feel free to explore this process, but prepare for occasional setbacks. Reading board books about potty training can be a fun way to engage their interest.
Health Checkups and Vaccinations
If your child has had their 18-month checkup and is healthy, you might not need to schedule another appointment until their next well-child visit. However, it’s important to stay on top of vaccinations, including the annual flu shot, which may be due in this age range, as well as the Hepatitis A vaccine if not already received.
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Summary
Your toddler’s development from 19 to 21 months is marked by significant physical, social, and cognitive milestones. From walking and eating habits to sleep needs and behavioral changes, understanding these aspects can help you navigate this exciting yet challenging phase of parenting. Keep observing and engaging with your little one to foster a nurturing environment as they grow.
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