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Development in a 17-Month-Old Baby

Toddlers around the age of 17 months continue to explore their world in an effort to make new discoveries. They continue to develop language, social and physical skills, and begin developing cognitive skills, as well. At this point, toddlers may also begin to venture into the time period known as the "terrible twos," and they may begin to assert their independence.

  1. Language Development

    • By the age of 17 months, most toddlers should be able to clearly say about six words. Toddlers at this age may routinely throw temper tantrums in an effort to communicate because they do not yet possess enough words to express their needs and wants. Toddlers may have language delay if they fail to use any words to communicate. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, researchers have found language delays to be the most common type of developmental delay. In fact, about 20 percent of all toddlers may have some degree of a language delay. Some delays may resolve themselves naturally over time, while others may require interventions.

    Social Development

    • At this point, toddlers do not play cooperatively. Cooperative play usually emerges after age 2. However, 17-month-olds enjoy interacting with caregivers while reading books. Some at this age may start to play pretend games with themselves and caregivers.

    Physical Development

    • All toddlers should be walking independently by this point, unless they were born prematurely. By this age, most toddlers can turn pages in a book, stack at least three blocks and use a fork and spoon. Most have started climbing on furniture and toys, and may be able to maneuver a riding toy. Some may throw a ball underhand, kick a ball and dance to music.

    Other Changes

    • Around this age, many toddlers begin to display cognitive skills such as sorting objects by color, shape and size. Also, many no longer require more than one nap each day. In addition, at this point, many toddlers begin to become picky about what they will and will not eat.

    Considerations

    • Not all babies will develop at the same rate. However, in some cases, a developmental delay may be present. Pediatricians typically monitor development at regularly scheduled well-child visits. If the parent or pediatrician suspects a delay, further assessments may be conducted.

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