👶 One year
Your 12-month-old baby
Happy birthday — a whole year of firsts
By Emma Whitfield · Pregnancy & Baby Writer
Development at 12 months
At a year, some babies are walking and others are still cruising or crawling — all normal. Many say one to three words with meaning, wave, clap, point to show you things, and follow simple one-step instructions. Their personality shines.
Feeding
From 12 months your baby can move from formula (if used) to full-fat cows' milk as a main drink, and eat three meals plus snacks from the family menu. Breastfeeding can continue for as long as you both want.
Sleep
Most one-year-olds sleep around 11–14 hours across the night and one or two naps. The transition to one nap often happens between 12 and 18 months.
Play & connection
Pretend play (feeding a teddy, pretend phone calls), simple puzzles, and lots of outdoor time all support this stage. Keep reading daily — it is the single best thing for language.
Focus this month
Your baby is due the 12-month vaccinations (including MMR and others). A one-year review with your health visitor is also usual around now.
When to check in
Talk to your health visitor or GP if your one-year-old is not making sounds or gestures to communicate, not weight-bearing on their legs, or has lost skills — early support makes a real difference.
Your 12-month-old baby: common questions
What should a 12-month-old baby be doing?
At a year, some babies are walking and others are still cruising or crawling — all normal. Many say one to three words with meaning, wave, clap, point to show you things, and follow simple one-step instructions. Their personality shines. Remember this is a typical range — healthy babies reach milestones at very different times.
How much should a 12-month-old baby sleep?
Most one-year-olds sleep around 11–14 hours across the night and one or two naps. The transition to one nap often happens between 12 and 18 months.
What should I feed a 12-month-old baby?
From 12 months your baby can move from formula (if used) to full-fat cows' milk as a main drink, and eat three meals plus snacks from the family menu. Breastfeeding can continue for as long as you both want.
Sources & further reading
- Baby — development and milestones — NHS Start for Life
- Safer sleep advice — The Lullaby Trust
This is general information, not medical advice — every baby develops differently and the ranges here are typical, not targets. Your health visitor and the NHS red book are your personal sources of truth. If you're ever worried about your baby's development, health or feeding, speak to your health visitor or GP. Reviewed July 2026.