11 Months Old Development

Content reviewed against published CDC, WHO, AAP guidelines

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Almost a toddler. Your baby is likely cruising, may be walking, and understands far more language than they can produce.

Key takeaways

  • May walk with one hand held or independently
  • Follows simple one-step directions
  • Shows independence ("I do it" behaviors emerging)
  • Approaching weaning age for some families.
  • Sleeps 11-14 hours total.
Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving 'bye-bye' are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move.
CDC's Developmental Milestones, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Physical development

  • May walk with one hand held or independently
  • Squats to pick things up from standing
  • Puts objects into containers
  • Turns pages of a board book (multiple at a time)

Cognitive development

  • Follows simple one-step directions
  • Knows what everyday objects are used for
  • Points to what they want
  • May say 1-3 words besides "mama" and "dada"

Social & emotional

  • Shows independence ("I do it" behaviors emerging)
  • Engages in simple pretend play (talking on phone, feeding doll)
  • Looks at you for approval or reaction (social referencing)
  • May resist being told "no"

Feeding

Approaching weaning age for some families. Table foods should make up a growing portion of diet. Practice with an open cup. Three meals and 1-2 snacks.

Sleep

Sleeps 11-14 hours total. Still 2 naps for most, though the transition to 1 nap happens between 12-18 months.

Common concerns at this age

Activities to try

  • Encourage walking between furniture pieces
  • Play with stacking cups and nesting toys
  • Read together and ask "Where is the...?"
  • Practice with spoon and fork during meals

Frequently asked questions

What should a 11 months old be doing?
Almost a toddler. Your baby is likely cruising, may be walking, and understands far more language than they can produce.
How much should a 11 months old sleep?
Sleeps 11-14 hours total. Still 2 naps for most, though the transition to 1 nap happens between 12-18 months.
How much should a 11 months old eat?
Approaching weaning age for some families. Table foods should make up a growing portion of diet. Practice with an open cup. Three meals and 1-2 snacks.
What activities help a 11 months old develop?
Encourage walking between furniture pieces. Play with stacking cups and nesting toys. Read together and ask "Where is the...?".

Bottom line

Every baby develops at their own pace. The milestones listed for 11 months old are typical ranges based on CDC and AAP guidelines. If your baby hasn't reached a milestone, it doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong — but talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

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