Baby's First Year
Month 11 — Almost a Toddler
Baby This Month
approximately 74–78cm and 9.5–11kg
Your baby is teetering on the edge of toddlerhood in every sense. Many are taking their first solo steps this month — and even those who aren't walking yet are standing without support, squatting and standing back up, and clearly preparing for the big moment. Vocabulary is growing: one or two clear words used with intention are common, and your baby understands far more than they can say. They show strong preferences — for people, foods, toys, and activities. Emotions are becoming more intense and visible: joy, frustration, affection, and annoyance are all expressed with conviction.
The 12-month check is coming up — it typically includes vaccinations and a full developmental review. Your baby should be eating three balanced meals and two snacks a day, mostly family foods with modified texture. Iron continues to be important — babies this age are at higher risk of iron deficiency anaemia, especially if breastfed or low on meat intake. A quick blood test can check iron levels if there's any concern.
At 11 months, your baby already understands the concept of unfair. Research has shown that babies this age notice when two people are given unequal amounts of something and look longer — a sign of surprise or confusion — at the unequal distribution. The sense of fairness emerges before language, before walking, and before almost any other social concept. Your baby's moral compass is already pointing north, even though they can't yet articulate a single sentence.
If your baby isn't walking yet, resist the urge to compare. Walking independently any time between 9 and 18 months is completely within the normal range. Babies who crawl more before walking often have stronger core muscles and better coordination when they do walk. If your baby is cruising, standing, and showing interest in walking, they will get there. Raise concerns at the 12-month check if you're worried.
Start thinking about the transition from formula to whole cow's milk at 12 months. Full-fat cow's milk (not semi-skimmed) provides the fat your baby still needs for brain development. Continue breastfeeding alongside as long as you both want to.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Read full disclaimer
The pre-birthday period is a good time to have a conversation about screen time — what your approach will be and how to be consistent between caregivers as your baby becomes more aware of phones and TVs.
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