Imitation and practice are important ways for your 12-month-old to learn. Practice
leads to mastery of skills and that is very important for your toddler. You may find your toddler
doing the same thing over and over again many times. You may also notice your toddler imitating
words and actions. Children are first able to imitate simple gestures and sounds. Next, they
progress to imitating more complex movements, sounds, and words. This may include gestures,
animal sounds, and simple words or phrases. Often they will be the ones that you use when
talking, singing or playing with your toddler.
Your child's temperament can affect your child's use of imitation and practice skills.
Intense or persistent children may be very challenging at this time. They can be very driven to
practice the same behavior, even if you try to stop it! Children who are easily distracted or
frustrated may need more help from adults. A child's use of imitation is also shaped by temperament,
such as being shy.
Add a safe, plastic, hand-held mirror to your child's toy box. Toddlers love to look at
themselves in the mirror. Make sad, happy, and funny faces together. Talk about what you see.
Finger plays and simple songs are a fun and easy way for your child to practice language
and movement. Make songs and games a part or your child's daily routine in the car, at bathtime, or at bedtime.
Books and reading aloud are important-and fun-tools for learning. It's never too early
to start! Make books and reading aloud part of your child's daily routine. Your child may enjoy
a story at bedtime. Keep sturdy board books in the toy box and diaper bag!
Adapted from Healthy Steps. Edited and Compiled by the Center for Promotion of Child Development Through Primary Care 2011
