1 year old
Oh, the Adventures Awaits!
Play ideas, a book, a song and a little encouragement for your 12 month old, from Maddie.
By Maddie, early childhood educator and Mum
4 min read · Updated
In this guide
Hello wonderful parent,
Here we are at Month 12, You have a 1 year old!! Sometimes you will feel you are on the cusp of toddlerhood, and other times you'll still be soaking up those baby moments. You might be marveling at each new word, each wobbly step, and those little hands exploring everything (and I mean everything!) within reach. If your 1 year old has siblings, this is where the fun really cranks up! They will start following and learning from them more and more, just watch the way they observe their older siblings, so much admiration, wonder and intent.
My 3 year old just taught her baby sister how painting their faces, hair and bodies is much more fun than painting paper, oh the wonders!
This is such a fascinating and busy time. Every little adventure, every silly giggle, every curious peek into a cupboard... all part of their thrilling world of discovery. And you? You're this amazing, loving guide through it all. Your presence is the anchor for this incredible year of growth.
Lets see what we have for you for this month!
Activity 1: First Scribbles
How: Lay out some large paper and some thick crayons (just 2 or 3) and let your baby scribble freely.
You can lay this out on the ground or tape it to a wall or window if your little one is more mobile. Choose darker colours or tools that make bold marks easily — it helps your baby feel successful straight away, which keeps them engaged and confident.
I do sometimes let my one-year-old use her sister’s textas too. It occasionally ends with drawings on her hands (or face!), but they glide so easily and the bold marks are incredibly satisfying for them to create.
Why: This isn't just about mess! It's about starting to use those pre-writing muscles. It nurtures emotional development by giving them a sense of agency — “I did that.” That immediate feedback strengthens persistence, encourages experimentation, and sparks early creativity. When babies see that their actions create visible results, they begin to explore more freely, express themselves more confidently, and take pride in their efforts.
Activity 2: Copy Me Game
How: Start with a clap, a wave, or a gentle tap on the table. Then pause and watch your baby try to imitate you. It’s okay if they do their own version!
Why: Imitation is a powerful way for little ones to learn. This builds focus and helps them respond to social cues, which continue to be a big part of their world as they grow.
Nursery Rhyme: Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,
Knees and toes, knees and toes.
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,
We all clap hands together.
Eyes, and ears, and mouth, and nose
mouth and nose, mouth and nose.
Eyes, and ears, and mouth, and nose,
We all clap hands together.
It's a classic for a reason! Babies adore finding their body parts, even if they're a bit wobbly getting to those little toes. You can help them move their hands to the right spots, demonstrate for them and allow them to copy. Sing it slow and fast, quiet and loud. And enjoy that spark of laughter as you call clap hands together!
Book of the Month: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
This wonderfully illustrated book is a journey through colors, days of the week, and foods. It’s simple but captivating, like a long, delicious meal for the imagination. Have you noticed how toddlers often love turning the pages over and over? Don’t worry if you never finish a book, or if you go from the start to the end to the middle to the end again...your voice, the pictures, the enjoyment and time together is what matter most.
Did You Know?
Scribbling is not just about creating chaos on paper, it’s the first step toward handwriting! Those early marks are actually the beginning stages of planning movements. It’s wonderful to watch those little expressions of creativity unfold. Scribbles are important...at any age!
Social & Emotional Skill Building
Encourage imitation and creativity without jumping in to correct. Whether they're copying your dance moves or trying out new ones of their own, these moments build confidence. Letting them try (and try again) sends the message that they’re loved for who they already are, just as they are.
✨ Remember:
Enjoy this beautiful, busy and wild time. Remember baby doesn't need Pinterest and perfection they just need you, your voice, your smile and they everyday normal.
You're doing beautifully 💛
(If you want a couple more ideas to spark fun this month, click here; only when you feel ready, no pressure at all.)