Physical Development of a 1 Year Old

Weight and Height

• During the first year of life, the average child's weight triples and the height increases by 50 percent, according to Eirpharm. That tremendous growth will slow down a bit during a child's second year. Still growing steadily, the typical child will have an average weight gain of eight ounces each month. For height, children will grow an average of ¼ and ½ inch in length per month. By the time a child turns two, girls and boys on average will stand about 34 inches, and weigh between 27 and 28 pounds. Keep in mind that every child is different and will experience growth spurts at different times. If you have questions or concerns pertaining to your child's development and growth, contact your child's pediatrician with inquiries.

Head Circumference

• A child's head growth also slows during her second year. She'll probably only add about an inch in head circumference for the entire year.

Physical Attributes

• His physical attributes will change greatly during this year. As he becomes more mobile and active, his muscles will develop and will lose some baby fat. Arms and legs will gradually lengthen, and his feet will begin to point forward as he walks rather than to the sides. A once-rounded face will become more defined, too.

Mobility

• Babies that haven't begun walking on their own by the time they turn one year old should begin within the next three months. Following the ability to walk, a child will start to run. Before a child's second birthday, he should be able to jump, climb stairs while holding on to a railing, and dance while listening to music.

Pushing and Pulling

• Push-and-pull toys are great learning tools for one-year-olds. During this time of becoming mobile, children will enjoy pushing and pulling toys along with taking steps.

Common Milestones

• During months 13 through 24, children will become more coordinated to self-feed themselves with a spoon and fork, build towers out of blocks up to six high and then find delight at knocking them down, scribble with a crayon, turn pages and knobs, and pick up a ball while it is in motion.