10-month milestones are a remarkable time in your baby’s development, one that I know all too well as a mother of three. As a teacher and a parent, I’ve always believed in the power of understanding developmental stages and how they shape the little learners we’re raising. I vividly remember each of my children reaching their 10-month mark. It was a time filled with awe and wonder as they began to show their personalities, discover new skills, and engage with the world around them in ways I never imagined.
At 10 months, your baby is no longer just a tiny, dependent bundle but a curious, active little explorer. Crawling, babbling, and reaching milestones that will shape their social, emotional, and cognitive growth—these are the moments that remind you how fast they’re growing. As a mother and a teacher, I’ve come to realize that celebrating these milestones not only supports your baby’s growth but also deepens the bond you share. In this guide, we’ll walk through those essential milestones and how you can help your baby thrive during this exciting stage of development.
1- 10 Month Old Baby Milestones: Physical Development
Motor Skills at 10 Months: Crawling, Standing with Support, and Possibly Starting to Walk
At 10 months, your baby is likely mastering the art of movement. I remember watching my little one take their first determined crawl, a slow-motion moment that felt more like an Olympic feat than a simple developmental milestone. Crawling is a key part of their motor skills development, helping strengthen the muscles needed for standing and walking. At this stage, babies are not just crawling with purpose—they’re also discovering how to balance themselves in a sitting position, pushing up to stand using furniture or your hands for support.
Some babies might even attempt their first steps by standing with support, gripping onto anything that will help them stay upright. It’s often a wobbly affair, with arms flailing for balance, but oh, the joy when they take that first step, even if it’s just one! The entire room may cheer, and it’ll feel like a monumental achievement, even if they’re not quite walking yet. It’s about building confidence in movement, one step at a time.
Crawling and standing with support also help with spatial awareness. Your baby is starting to understand the physical world around them—how far away things are, what they can reach, and the space they occupy. Those first steps, whether taken with assistance or without, are an exciting glimpse into the rapid physical growth and coordination unfolding in front of your eyes. So, while they might still need a soft landing pad (or maybe your lap) after that first step, the journey toward walking has officially begun.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Picking Up Small Objects, Clapping Hands, or Waving
At 10 months, your baby’s ability to coordinate their hands and eyes is growing by leaps and bounds. I’ll never forget the first time one of my children picked up a tiny toy from the floor, looked at it, and placed it right into their mouth—talk about mastering the “grab and go” technique! It may seem like a simple thing, but the fine motor skills involved in picking up small objects require both hand-eye coordination and increased brain development.
Your baby is also likely starting to clap their hands, a joyous moment that’s as much fun for parents as it is for the little one. When they clap, it’s not just adorable—it’s an important skill that helps build muscle strength in the arms and hands. It’s also an early sign of social understanding, as babies often mimic clapping when they see others do it.
Waving is another milestone around 10 months. Whether it’s in response to “bye-bye” or simply a random gesture, waving signals that your baby is becoming more aware of social interactions. They’re learning the basics of communication, even if they don’t fully understand the meaning behind it yet. You’ll also notice them transferring objects from hand to hand, helping improve dexterity. This is a big step toward being able to manipulate objects later on, like turning the pages of a book or stacking blocks.
So, when your baby claps or waves, don’t be surprised if you find yourself clapping back or waving energetically. It’s all part of their growing ability to understand the world and communicate with you, one tiny wave at a time!
Weight and Height Growth: Average Physical Growth in Weight and Height for a 10-Month-Old
The 10-month mark is a stage of steady growth for your baby, and it’s fascinating to watch how their little body changes. By this time, the average 10-month-old baby typically weighs around 18 pounds (8.2 kg) and measures about 28 inches (71 cm) in height. Of course, every baby grows at their own pace, but these numbers give you a general idea of what to expect.
I remember feeling that mix of pride and awe each time I took my baby to the doctor for their well-child checkup. The growth charts, which initially seemed intimidating, became a source of encouragement. As they added inches and pounds, it signified how much they were developing physically, and as a parent, that’s always a reassuring feeling. By 10 months, your baby may have doubled their birth weight—what an accomplishment!
It’s important to remember that growth isn’t just about the numbers. Babies at this stage are gaining more muscle tone, and their bodies are becoming more proportional. The “baby fat” that was so prominent in the earlier months starts to smooth out a bit as they become more active. While weight and height are important indicators, it’s the overall development—physical, cognitive, and emotional—that plays the biggest role in your baby’s well-being.
Teething: The Eruption of More Teeth Around This Time
Ah, teething. It’s one of those parenting experiences that’s as memorable as it is challenging. By 10 months, many babies will have sprouted a few teeth, and some might even be working on getting their top front teeth. Teething typically begins around 6 months, but by 10 months, you’ll likely notice your baby gnawing on everything in sight—from toys to your fingers, and sometimes even their own clothes.
The eruption of teeth can be uncomfortable for babies, leading to drooling, fussiness, and a general desire to chew on anything within reach. I’ll never forget the days when my baby seemed to be constantly biting on teething rings or even my shoulder (yes, they were that desperate!). Despite the discomfort, teething is an important step in their development, as it prepares them for solid food and aids in speech development down the road.
Parents, it’s not just the baby who suffers during this time. The sleepless nights, cranky moments, and constant need for soothing can feel like a rite of passage. But hang in there—teething doesn’t last forever, and soon enough, your baby’s smile will be full of little teeth to show off. And when they flash that toothy grin, it’ll all feel worth it.
Final Thoughts
As you navigate the 10-month milestones, remember that every baby develops at their own pace. Don’t stress if they’re not crawling, standing, or sprouting teeth exactly on schedule. These milestones are guidelines, not deadlines. Celebrate each new skill, no matter how big or small, because they all add to the beautiful journey of growth and discovery.
While your baby is busy mastering motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and growing their adorable little teeth, you’re there to witness it all—cheering them on, helping them along, and soaking up every precious moment. Enjoy it, because these first steps into their world are more than just milestones; they’re memories in the making.
2- Cognitive Development at 10 Months
Understanding Object Permanence: Babies Begin to Understand that Objects Still Exist Even When Not Seen
Around 10 months, your baby is starting to grasp one of the most fascinating concepts: object permanence. This is a fancy term for the idea that things still exist even when they can’t be seen, heard, or touched. It’s a big cognitive leap that helps your baby understand the world in more complex ways. I vividly remember when my child first realized that a toy could be hidden under a blanket and still be there. Their eyes widened with wonder as they lifted the cloth, expecting the toy to be gone but finding it still there. It was like a mini magic trick, and they were the magician!
This ability is more than just fun; it’s a crucial milestone in cognitive development. Before babies develop object permanence, they may assume that when something disappears from view, it’s gone forever. This is why babies at this age love games like peek-a-boo. They’re testing the idea that people and objects exist even when they’re not in sight. Every time you pop your head back into view, it’s a little moment of discovery for them. So, when you hide a toy or even leave the room, watch for their reaction. It’s a sign that they’re starting to understand that the world doesn’t disappear when they can’t see it.
Exploring with Hands and Mouth: The Role of Sensory Exploration in Brain Development
At 10 months, your baby is in a full sensory overload mode. They’re touching, tasting, and feeling everything they can get their hands on (sometimes even your hair!). It’s not just a phase of random exploration; it’s their brain developing at full speed. Babies explore the world with their mouths and hands, which might seem a little messy but is incredibly important for their cognitive and motor development.
Think about it: when my baby grabbed a spoon and immediately stuck it in their mouth, it wasn’t about wanting to eat. It was about discovering textures, shapes, and materials. They were learning what it felt like to hold an object, how it moved, and even how it tasted. This sensory exploration helps build neural connections in the brain. The more they explore with their senses, the more they learn about their environment, strengthening their future problem-solving skills.
You might see your baby chewing on a book or gnawing on a toy—this is part of how they develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. What may seem like a simple chew session is actually crucial for their brain’s growth. Each new texture, shape, and taste helps create pathways in their brain that will serve them for years to come. So next time you catch your baby munching on their favorite rattle, just know they’re creating a foundation for future learning.
Following Simple Commands: Baby May Start Understanding Basic Words and Instructions
By the time they’re 10 months old, babies are starting to understand that words and actions are connected. They may not be able to speak yet, but they’re beginning to recognize simple instructions. I’ll never forget the first time my little one waved bye-bye after I said, “Say bye-bye!” It wasn’t a perfect response, but it was clear that they were starting to associate words with actions.
At this stage, your baby might not fully understand everything you say, but they’re starting to pick up on the rhythm and patterns of language. You may notice them responding to familiar commands like “come here,” “clap hands,” or “where’s your nose?” While they may not execute them perfectly just yet, they understand that you’re asking something of them.
This early understanding is an important step toward language acquisition. It shows that their brain is wiring itself to process words and their meanings. Simple commands also help your baby feel secure as they start to understand that language has power. When you say “no-no” or “stop,” they may be beginning to recognize that you’re setting boundaries.
Memory Development: The Beginning of Short-Term Memory and Recognition of Familiar Faces
Around the 10-month mark, your baby’s memory starts to develop in exciting ways. They’re beginning to form short-term memories and can recognize familiar faces more easily. It’s not just the people in your household that they remember but also the places and routines that are becoming familiar. I remember the first time my baby looked across the room, saw their favorite toy, and crawled toward it with purpose. It was the moment when I realized they were remembering the toy from earlier in the day.
At this stage, babies can also recognize and respond to familiar people, like family members or close friends. While they may still be wary of strangers, they will typically light up when they see someone they know. Their ability to recall faces and places plays a crucial role in their emotional development. It helps them feel safe and secure when they can recognize their caregivers or familiar surroundings.
Even though your baby’s memory is still developing, you may notice them showing excitement when they see a toy they’ve played with before or when they hear a familiar phrase, like “time for bedtime.” These early signs of memory are a foundation for more complex cognitive abilities that will develop over the coming months and years. It’s a beautiful thing to witness, watching them take in and retain bits of the world around them.
In these formative months, every new skill your baby develops is more than just a milestone—it’s a sign of their growing brain and the wonderful journey of discovery they’re on. Whether it’s understanding object permanence or recognizing familiar faces, it’s all part of the amazing process of learning and growing.
3- Emotional and Social Milestones at 10 Months
Separation Anxiety: The Baby May Show Discomfort When Separated from Parents
Around 10 months, your baby may start to experience separation anxiety, and it can be heart-wrenching for both of you. One minute, they’re happily playing on the floor, and the next, they’re crying uncontrollably when you walk out of the room. I remember the first time my baby realized I was leaving, and the look on their face as they clung to my leg made me feel like the worst parent. It was like I had just disappeared into thin air, and they didn’t know how to process it.
This emotional shift is completely normal and part of your baby’s growing attachment. At this stage, babies start to understand that they are separate from you and that when you leave, they might not see you again for a while. Separation anxiety is a sign that your baby is developing strong emotional bonds with their primary caregivers.
The good news is that this phase usually doesn’t last forever. It might help to establish a goodbye routine, like a special wave or a kiss, to reassure them. Over time, they’ll realize that you always return, and the anxiety will lessen. But during the tough moments, just remember: their tears are actually a sign of how deeply they’re bonding with you.
Social Interactions: Smiling, Laughing, and Engaging with Caregivers
By the time your baby reaches 10 months, their social skills are really starting to blossom. They’re not just smiling at you—they’re actively engaging in social interactions. I remember how my baby would break into the widest grin just by making eye contact. It was like they were discovering the power of a smile, and it was clear that seeing my face brought them joy.
Smiling, laughing, and even making sounds like “ah-goo” or “ba-ba” are all signs that your baby is becoming more aware of social cues and is learning to respond in kind. This is a huge milestone in emotional development. Babies this age are starting to understand that their actions can get a response from others, and they love it when they’re the center of attention.
You’ll also start to notice your baby engaging in playful behaviors, like giggling when you peek out from behind a door or mimic your facial expressions. They’re learning that social interactions are fun, and they’re eager to be a part of them. It’s truly amazing how quickly they go from cooing to laughing at your silly faces or the sound of your voice. So, don’t be afraid to get goofy—it’s their favorite thing!
Imitation of Actions: Mimicking Facial Expressions and Behaviors
At 10 months, your baby is starting to realize that they can mimic what you do. Suddenly, that little face is copying your gestures and expressions, which can be both hilarious and heartwarming. I’ll never forget the first time my baby stuck their tongue out at me. I stuck my tongue out in return, and we went back and forth for a good five minutes, laughing at each other. It felt like a little game that only we understood.
This ability to imitate is an important part of your baby’s social and cognitive development. Babies at this age are learning by observing you. They notice that when you smile, they feel happy, and when you shake your head, it might mean “no.” It’s their way of connecting with you and learning how to communicate.
This stage also lays the groundwork for future communication skills. As your baby mimics your actions, they’re learning the basics of social interaction. They’re discovering the cause-and-effect nature of the world—when I do this, you do that. It’s the beginning of their understanding of how they can influence their environment.
Attachment to Primary Caregiver: Building Stronger Emotional Bonds with Parents or Caregivers
Around 10 months, you may notice that your baby is becoming even more attached to you, their primary caregiver. They may seek comfort from you more often, whether it’s during a meltdown or just because they want to be close. This increased attachment is a sign of emotional growth. Your baby is starting to understand that you are their safe haven, the one person who will always be there for them, no matter what.
I remember when my baby reached this stage, and I’d find them reaching for me with a look of pure trust. It was as if they knew that no matter what, I would be there to comfort them. This attachment is crucial for your baby’s emotional development. It helps them feel safe and secure, which in turn allows them to explore the world around them with confidence.
This bond also lays the foundation for future relationships. Your baby is learning what trust feels like, and they’re developing a sense of empathy. They begin to understand that when they’re upset, you’ll comfort them, and when they’re happy, you’ll celebrate with them. Over time, this attachment grows into a deep, lifelong connection that strengthens as they continue to grow.
4- Language Development at 10 Months
Babbling: A Combination of Consonant-Vowel Sounds, Such as “Mama” or “Dada”
At 10 months, your baby’s vocal cords are getting a workout! You’ll start hearing the delightful sounds of babbling, which are often a combination of consonants and vowels like “ba-ba” or “da-da.” This is when the fun begins for both you and your baby. I remember hearing my little one’s first attempt at “mama.” It wasn’t perfect, but it was unmistakable—my heart swelled with pride. It felt like they were trying to communicate with me for the first time.
Babbling is an important step in language development. At this stage, babies are experimenting with making sounds, which is their way of practicing the building blocks of speech. These early sounds are often a precursor to their first real words. When babies produce sounds like “ba-ba,” they’re essentially learning how to coordinate their tongue, lips, and vocal cords. It’s their baby version of vocal rehearsal.
While “mama” and “dada” might sound like the first words, they’re often just an early form of babbling. Babies love the rhythm and sound of these syllables. They’re practicing their speech muscles, and it’s a delightful moment for parents to hear. Before long, these sounds will turn into full-fledged words, and the real fun of communication will begin.
First Words: Some Babies May Say Their First Recognizable Word
At this stage, some babies may surprise you with their first real word! It’s an exciting milestone, though the first word doesn’t always come with fanfare. I distinctly remember the day my baby said “hi” for the first time. It was like they had just unlocked a new skill, and their face lit up when they said it, as if they understood the magic of language.
While “mama” and “dada” may have been said before, the first real word often has meaning behind it. It could be something as simple as “dog” when they see the family pet or “ball” when they’re holding their favorite toy. Every word they utter is a tiny victory that shows their brain is making connections between sounds and the world around them.
Don’t be surprised if the first word isn’t clear or is more of a sound than a full word. Babies often experiment with sound combinations before they get it right. But when they finally speak a recognizable word, it’s a moment of joy for both you and your baby. It’s the beginning of a lifetime of communication, and it’s worth celebrating every time your baby tries to speak.
Understanding Simple Instructions: Such as “Wave Bye-Bye” or “Give Me the Toy”
By 10 months, your baby is starting to understand that words can be more than just noise—they can be instructions! Simple commands like “wave bye-bye” or “give me the toy” may not be fully executed perfectly, but your baby is beginning to connect words with actions. I’ll never forget the first time my baby actually waved after I said “bye-bye.” It wasn’t a perfect wave, but it was a moment of understanding that they were starting to follow along with what I was saying.
At this stage, your baby might not respond every time, but they’re certainly absorbing everything. They’ll begin to recognize simple commands and start to associate words with actions. When you ask them to wave or clap their hands, they might smile or give a half-wave. It’s all part of their language development as they start to understand what you want them to do.
This understanding of simple instructions is a precursor to more complex language skills. It shows that your baby is learning how to process what you say and begin to respond accordingly. It’s also an opportunity for you to reinforce their learning with positive feedback, like clapping when they try to respond. Over time, they’ll be able to follow more and more instructions, and soon, you’ll be able to have little mini-conversations through these simple cues!
Non-verbal Communication: Pointing or Gesturing to Indicate Needs or Desires
Around this time, your baby is also starting to realize that communication isn’t just about words—it’s about gestures and expressions too. Pointing, reaching, or even shaking their head are all ways babies express their needs or desires. I remember when my baby started pointing to the cookie jar, and I knew exactly what they were asking for—“Can I have one, please?”
Non-verbal communication is a huge milestone. Babies quickly learn that pointing or gesturing can help them get their point across without needing words. They may point to a toy they want, or hold their arms up when they want to be picked up. These actions tell you so much about what they want, even if they can’t vocalize it just yet.
Pointing is often one of the first forms of non-verbal communication, and it’s a sign that your baby is developing their ability to express themselves. It’s also a great way for you to build communication with your baby, as they learn that their actions have meaning and can influence their environment. It’s a fun stage, and as a parent, it’s also a good reminder that sometimes you don’t need words to understand each other.
5- How to Support Your Baby’s Growth at 10 Months
Encourage Physical Activity: Providing a Safe Environment for Crawling, Standing, and Cruising
At 10 months, your baby’s muscles are stronger, and they’re ready to explore the world around them—often by crawling, standing with support, or cruising along furniture. This is a wonderful time to support their physical development by providing a safe and stimulating environment. I remember how my baby’s face lit up the first time they pulled themselves up on the couch. It was like they had just discovered a whole new world at their eye level.
Creating a safe space for these movements is essential. Soft mats or rugs can cushion any falls, and removing sharp edges or breakables ensures they can explore freely without getting hurt. You’ll likely find that your baby is eager to move, even if they’re not quite walking yet. They may crawl to their favorite toy and try to stand up beside it, showing off their newfound abilities.
Encouraging physical activity doesn’t mean you need to push them into doing things they’re not ready for. Just offering opportunities for them to practice crawling, standing, or cruising will help them build confidence and strength. And don’t forget to celebrate every little milestone, whether it’s standing for a few seconds or cruising across the room!
Stimulate Cognitive Development: Interactive Toys that Promote Problem-Solving and Sensory Play
At 10 months, your baby’s brain is like a sponge, soaking up information about the world. This is a perfect time to introduce toys that promote cognitive development, such as activity cubes, stacking rings, or sensory balls. These toys help your baby learn cause and effect, problem-solving, and sensory exploration. I remember how my baby loved playing with a set of colorful blocks. They would knock them over, then try to stack them again, fascinated by the sound they made when they fell.
Interactive toys are wonderful for encouraging your baby’s cognitive growth. Toys that involve shapes, colors, or patterns help babies begin to recognize differences and similarities. Toys with buttons to press or levers to pull teach them about cause and effect—press a button, and the toy lights up or makes a sound. These simple actions help your baby understand how their actions impact the world.
Aside from toys, everyday items like wooden spoons or plastic containers can also promote problem-solving. My baby loved to explore kitchen items—opening and closing lids, stacking bowls, or pretending to cook with wooden spoons. Don’t be afraid to let them explore these objects. It’s amazing how much they can learn through sensory play and experimentation.
Social and Emotional Development: Spend Quality Time Interacting, Playing, and Bonding
The first year of life is crucial for your baby’s social and emotional development, and it’s all about bonding and interaction. At 10 months, your baby will start to respond more to the people around them, seeking comfort in your presence and joy in your interactions. I remember the first time my baby gave me a real “hug.” It wasn’t just about being picked up, but a genuine moment of emotional connection.
Spending quality time together—whether it’s playing peekaboo, singing songs, or just holding your baby close—helps build trust and security. These interactions teach them that you’re their safe place, and the emotional bonds you form now will serve as the foundation for future relationships. They begin to learn about empathy through your responses to their needs, like picking them up when they cry or laughing together when something silly happens.
Bonding time doesn’t always have to be structured. Sometimes, simple moments—like making faces at each other or laughing at a silly noise—are the most memorable. The more time you spend engaging with your baby, the more they learn about the world and their emotional connection to you. So, take the time to slow down, play, and enjoy these moments before they’re gone.
Language Skills: Reading to Your Baby and Engaging in Babbling Conversations
By 10 months, your baby is starting to understand the rhythm and melody of language, even if they can’t form words yet. One of the best things you can do to support their language development is to read to them. I remember how my baby would sit on my lap, mesmerized by the colorful pictures in a board book. Even though they couldn’t understand the words, they were learning to associate the sounds I made with the pictures they saw.
Reading aloud isn’t just about showing them pictures—it’s about introducing them to language. Pointing to objects, naming them, and using a variety of words helps your baby start to recognize language patterns. Don’t forget to make it interactive! Pausing to ask questions, like “Where’s the bear?” or “Can you point to the dog?” encourages communication.
Babbling conversations also play a role. While your baby might not have much to say yet, engaging with them in a back-and-forth babbling session helps with their communication skills. I loved the moments when my baby would babble at me, and I’d babble back. It’s their way of practicing language, and they get a sense of how conversation works—responding to sounds, tones, and expressions.
So, whether you’re reading a book, singing a song, or just having a silly, babbling conversation, all these activities are laying the groundwork for your baby’s future language skills. You’re helping them build a strong foundation for communication, and these moments will soon turn into real words and meaningful conversations.
Conclusion:
Tracking your baby’s 10-month milestones is an exciting way to witness the incredible growth and development they’re experiencing. From their physical achievements like crawling and standing to cognitive and emotional milestones, every new skill is a window into their future. As a parent, it’s vital to encourage and support these developments by creating a safe environment, playing interactive games, and speaking to your baby regularly. But just as important is embracing the journey with patience and joy, understanding that every baby grows at their own pace. These months will pass quickly, so savor the small moments, the giggles, and even the challenges. Before you know it, your little one will be walking and talking, and you’ll look back at these milestones with pride.
FAQ:
- What should a 10-month-old baby be able to do?
At 10 months, babies typically start crawling, standing with support, clapping, and recognizing familiar faces. Your baby may also be babbling and experimenting with their first words. - How can I help my baby reach their 10-month milestones?
Encourage your baby’s development by offering plenty of tummy time to strengthen muscles for crawling, playing interactive games like peekaboo, and speaking to them regularly. Reading books together also helps with language development. - What if my baby is not hitting 10-month milestones?
Every baby develops differently, so don’t worry if your little one isn’t meeting every milestone at exactly 10 months. If you’re concerned, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician for guidance and reassurance. - Is teething common at 10 months?
Yes, teething is common at this age. Many babies begin to cut their first teeth around 10 months, which can cause drooling, irritability, and sometimes disrupted sleep. Offering a teething ring or cold washcloth can help soothe their discomfort.