Baby's Development - First two years

Birth to Six Months

From the moment your baby is conceived he/she will be totally unique mixture of genes from you and your husband (partner's) families. The experinces your baby has in your tummy will subtly influence his/her character. For example a calm stress free pregnancy and birth will help to create a peaceful baby.

At birth the baby may not have any concept of who he/she is for now but the temperament and personality will soon start to show. Some babies are very placid while others are excitable or 'difficult" and may not sleep all day. However these labels are often linked to our own expectations. Even now the baby will pick up on positive vibes and behave accordingly so tell the baby what a good baby he/she is.

Six - Twelve Months

Babies gain a sense of independence from six months of age. He/she will realise of being a separate being from you and having an effect on things and people around him/her. Some babies start to recognise their own name at this age.

The memory and awareness of the environment develops and the character of the baby gets shaped by the experiences gained at this age. The babies start to understand that some behaviours are unacceptable however they will continue to test the boundaries as this is how they learn about the world. At this stage the babies tend to be quite clingy - " separation anxiety". Though this can be annoying it shows that he/she understands how important you are to him/her.

It is important in this first year to form a close attachment with your baby so that there is a secure base for the baby to return to. This will give the baby the confidence to be on his/her own even if the baby is not naturally sociable or fearless than others.

Twelve to Eighteen Months

The toddler at this age is mobile and able to explore more. The development speeds up rapidly. He/she will start to show more independence in feeding and refusing to be put in the pram or a car seat. Patterns of behaviour and thinking are starting to be set now. By the age of one you know the personality of your toddler as well as likes and dislikes.

You will start to notice that your toddler's little friends also have quite different and clearly defined characteristics. For example some will be happy to play on their own while others would be chatty, sociable and boisterous. Don't be surprised to find your toddler's and little friends characters mirror mums or dads pretty closely! Studies have shown that most of us are doomed to become like our parents!

Eighteen Months Plus

As your toddlers comes to her second birthday he/she will have a clear idea of his/her identity and will not be afraid to vocalise wishes. The temper tantrums at this satge can be annoying but also are sign of growing independence. Try to see things from the toddlers point of view though this can be difficult.

Toddlers appear at this age like mini adults but need lots of affection and attention as well as familiarity and security. Therefore things such as a change in routine or your absence could result in a tantrum. There is a debate about how much of your toddlers emerging personality is down to nature or nuture. However children learn a lot by example so if you are calm, happy, confident and kind then chances are that your toddler will be the same.