Your baby is almost a one-year-old!
In fact, your “baby” might well be toddling around by now, or saying her first words. Language is the best tool to help a child do well later in school and in life.
Many children learn more than one language. Doing so doesn’t affect how soon they’ll reach language milestones. If you plan to teach your child more than one language, you may be interested in this guide: When Children Speak More Than One Language (PDF, 9 pages, 2 MB).
Your checklist for 10 to 12 months
✓ Book an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner for your child’s 12-month immunizations and a check-up
✓ Book your baby’s first dental appointment – a quick check-up by their first birthday (or six months from when their first tooth came in)
✓ Complete the 12-month Nipissing developmental checklist (call Here4Kids at 1-844-454-3711 if you have any concerns)
✓ If your baby is getting close to the weight and/or height limit of her car seat, start researching “stage 1” car seats. It’s safest for your baby to stay rear-facing as long as possible – at least until age 2, or until they reach the maximum rear-facing weight of the car seat.
✓ Offer meals and snacks at the same times each day
✓ Try to make mealtimes pleasant and positive
✓ Continue to breastfeed as long as you and your baby want to – there are benefits to breastfeeding beyond a year.
✓ If you’re heading back to work, prepare your child for child care
Local activities
Get out and stay connected with your community! Check out these websites for local activities such as parades, farmers markets, museums, and shows:
If you live in Guelph, you probably have a Neighbourhood group. Find supports and services specific to your neighbourhood by searching the map.
Ontario Early Years Centres (OEYC)
Programs at your local OEYC help children develop through play, songs, stories, and rhymes. These programs are also a great way to spend special time with your child. Check out your local calendars:
Guides and resources
- Save the Oral Health Guide (PDF, 24 pages, 2 MB) for tips to help keep your baby’s teeth healthy from birth to age 12.
- When Children Speak More Than One Language (PDF, 9 pages, 2 MB).
Your local and Public Health supports
- Get answers to your healthy eating question by visiting UnlockFood.ca. If you prefer to talk directly to a registered dietitian call Health811 toll-free at 1-866-797-0000.
Looking forward? Read ahead to 13-18 months >