Note: All weights and lengths are approximate; each baby is unique. These figures are just general ranges.
Communication and social development
Baby now connects people and objects with certain sounds. She has mastered the fundamentals of movement well enough that she can turn her attention more to communicating and even speech. To be sure, the 11-month-old still wants to be close to her caregiver, but now more often takes off on her own to explore the world. Receiving praise makes baby proud and encourages her to express herself and engage more and more.
Senses and motor skills
Around this time, many babies take their first solo steps. They toddle over to mom or dad and are simultaneously proud and astonished at their new ability.
If baby has older siblings or sees mom and dad brushing their teeth, she’ll also want a toothbrush and will move it in her mouth to brush her teeth (even if there are only 3 teeth).
Interests and activities
Helping mom or dad take the laundry out of the washing machine is deeply satisfying for baby. In fact, any kind of “helping” with household tasks is a source of delight. If your 11-month-old insists on drinking out of a grown-up cup, try giving her water to drink for these first attempts – it’ll make the spills and drips much easier to deal with.