10-Month-Old Development & Milestones
- Entertained by everyday items and imitates you
- Understands behaviors based on your reactions
- Knows the meaning of the word “no”
- Shows a dramatic increase in single-word comprehension
Everyday entertainment
Boxes, pans, spoons, and keys provide endless entertainment thanks to your kiddo’s growing awareness of capacity and sensory perceptions. Even gifts might not hold up to the excitement of the wrapping paper. Part of this fascination with the everyday will lead your baby to imitating your daily behaviors. Like pretending to talk on a cell phone just like Mommy or Daddy. Hilarious, yes. Cute, absolutely! But it's learning as well.
Socializing through social referencing
When your 10-month-old’s uncertain about a situation, they’ll look at your facial expressions. If you’re smiling, they’ll feel reassured and keep doing what they’re doing. If you frown, they’ll stop what they’re doing. This remarkable skill develops out of their improved vision. A baby’s interest in human faces, and their realization that they’re uncertain about a situation, comes into focus as their vision sharpens.
Learning the power of “no”
”No” becomes a very important word when your baby hits the tenth month. Even if they can't say it yet, they certainly understand it. They also know its impact. Most babies express “no” by shaking their heads from side to side. And, of course, by flinging the offending object on the floor.
By saying no firmly and clearly, you help set limits for your baby. This can be especially important when your baby’s safety is concerned.
Word comprehension
Understanding words is a major development. It shows that your little one recognizes that a word is associated with a particular thing. For instance, if you ask, “Where’s my shoe?”, your 10-month-old might crawl or walk to retrieve the shoe. Exciting times!
Learning games
A fun way to help your baby exercise their growing brain and language skills is through functional play. Give them a comb and let them try to brush their hair. Or, if you’re feeling daring, let them brush yours. You can help your baby move forward during this phase—literally—by letting them hold onto your fingers, trying to walk as you encourage them along the way.
Your 10-month-old is experiencing some exciting and entertaining new adventures. Let’s continue to fuel the wonder as they get ready for their 11-month milestones.
