The Magic of One-Year-Olds: A Season of Discovery, Growth, and Chaos

Parenting a one-year-old is a rollercoaster of firsts, surprises, and occasional messes. From their determined attempts to feed themselves to their budding independence, life with a one-year-old is equal parts exhausting and delightful. 

If you’re parenting an infant, toddler, or preschooler at Encounter Learning Center, here’s what you can expect (and how you can thrive) as your child navigates this phase of being one.

Expect to Be Late

Getting out the door with a one-year-old can feel like a marathon. Maybe they insist on holding the spoon themselves, flinging applesauce everywhere in the process. Or perhaps they surprise you with a fresh diaper situation just as you’re ready to leave. Either way, punctuality isn’t this phase’s strong suit.

Instead of stressing, plan for the unexpected. Build in extra time and remind yourself that some delays are just part of the adventure.

Look Forward to Fashion Statements

One-year-olds are all about experimenting, and that includes their appearance. From mismatched socks to food-stained onesies, their “fashion choices” might not win any awards, but they’re undeniably charming. Add in the occasional crayon scribble on their hands or yogurt in their hair, and you’ve got a walking masterpiece of self-expression.

The best approach? Laugh it off and save your energy for the bigger messes.

Independence Takes Root

Your one-year-old is starting to explore the world—and their place in it. Their favorite activities often revolve around doing things on their own. Feeding themselves? Absolutely. Climbing everything in sight? Of course. Independence is messy, but it’s also a crucial part of their development.

Let them try. Sure, there will be spills and stumbles, but those moments are how they build confidence and skills.

Big Changes Are Happening

Physically:
- Starts to walk (12-15 months).
- Walks backward and sideways (15-18 months).
- Scribbles with crayons (15-18 months).
- Climbs stairs and jumps in place (18-24 months).

Verbally:
- Points to objects when named (18 months).
- Says 10-20 words, mostly nouns and pronouns (18 months).
- Says 40-50 words and forms two-word sentences (24 months).
- Understands more than they can say.

Mentally:
- Follows simple instructions.
- Learns through repetition and sensory experiences.
- Struggles to understand others’ perspectives.

Emotionally:
- Recognizes basic emotions in others.
- Has difficulty sharing.
- May begin role-playing activities.
- Displays separation anxiety.
- Plays next to (but not necessarily with) other children.

How to Help Them Thrive

Engage Their Senses
One-year-olds learn by touching, tasting, hearing, and seeing. Offer opportunities for sensory play, like finger painting, water play, or exploring textures. These activities not only engage their senses but also build neural connections.

Foster Their Confidence
Your toddler’s determination to “do it myself” might test your patience, but it’s a sign of healthy growth. Allow them to try new things, and celebrate their efforts—even when the results are imperfect.

Respond Consistently
Boundaries are important for one-year-olds. Consistency helps them feel secure as they navigate the world. Calmly and firmly reinforcing limits teaches them how to manage emotions and behaviors.

Everyday Moments Matter

The simple routines in your day are powerful opportunities to connect with your one-year-old:

- Morning Time: Start the day with smiles and words of love to set a positive tone.
- Drive Time: Talk or sing to them while on the go. It’s a chance to bond and reinforce simple ideas.
- Cuddle Time: Spend quiet, one-on-one moments that communicate love and security.
- Bath Time: Use this end-of-day ritual to relax, connect, and reflect on the day together.

The Bigger Picture

One-year-olds are bursting with curiosity, determination, and energy. They’re exploring their world, testing their limits, and learning through every messy, joyful moment. This stage may feel chaotic, but it’s also filled with wonder and growth.

Lean into their curiosity, embrace the mess, and cherish the milestones—big and small. The days may be long, but this magical season will fly by.

At Encounter Learning Center, we’re here to support you and your child through every phase of growth. Together, we’re nurturing confident, curious, and creative kids who are ready to take on the world—one tiny step at a time.