In the 10th month of a baby’s life, development is buzzing with milestones. Many infants are cruising along furniture or taking those first independent steps. Their communication skills are expanding, with attempts at words and a growing understanding of gestures. Introducing a range of finger foods encourages self-feeding and fine motor skills. As your little one becomes more active, maintaining a safe environment is crucial. Regular check-ups with the pediatrician help ensure that your baby is on the right track. Embrace and celebrate these moments of discovery and growth in your baby’s journey.

What are the Baby’s Development and Milestones on the 10th Month

Social Interaction

  • Increased awareness of others and a growing interest in social interactions.
  • Your baby may initiate games like peek-a-boo or imitate actions, displaying a desire for shared experiences.

Object Exploration

  • Heightened curiosity leads to more advanced exploration of objects.
  • Your baby may enjoy nesting cups, stacking rings, or exploring toys that involve fitting objects together.

Feeding Independence

  • Improved hand-eye coordination supports self-feeding with a spoon or finger foods.
  • Encourage their independence during meals, letting them explore different textures and tastes.

Cognitive Milestones

  • Enhanced problem-solving skills, such as figuring out how toys work or finding hidden objects.
  • Interest in cause-and-effect relationships becomes more apparent.

Emotional Expressions

  • Growing emotional expressiveness, including a broader range of facial expressions and gestures.
  • Your baby may show affection through hugs, and kisses, or respond to your emotions with empathy.

Exploration of Environments

  • Continued interest in exploring different environments and textures.
  • Ensure a safe space for exploration, both indoors and outdoors, to stimulate their senses.

Teething Signs

  • The emergence of new teeth may continue, and teething symptoms may still be present.
  • Provide teething toys or soothing methods as needed.

Recognition of Familiar Faces

  • Growing ability to recognize and respond to familiar faces and voices.
  • Your baby may display excitement or preference for certain individuals.

What are the activities needed to Support your 10-month-old baby’s development

Reading

  • Engage your baby with colorful picture books and interactive stories to stimulate their cognitive and language development

Drawing

  • Offer large, washable crayons and paper for your baby to make marks and explore different textures and colors

Singing

  • Singing songs and nursery rhymes together can help develop your baby’s auditory skills and encourage social interaction

Imitating

  • Encourage your baby to imitate simple actions and sounds, such as clapping, waving, or making animal noises

Stacking and Sorting

  • Provide safe, age-appropriate toys for stacking and sorting to support your baby’s fine motor skills and cognitive development

Messy Play

  • Engage your baby in safe, sensory activities such as playing with cooked noodles or exploring different textures to support their cognitive and sensory development

Music and Movement

  • Encourage your baby to move and dance to music to support their physical development and coordination

How Much Sleep Does Your 10-Month-Old Baby Need

Nighttime Sleep

  • Most 10-month-olds sleep for about 10 to 12 hours at night.
  • Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help signal that it’s time for sleep.
  • Some babies might still wake up during the night, so be prepared for nighttime feedings or comforting as needed.

Daytime Naps

  • Your baby will likely take two naps during the day.
  • Each nap may last anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, with a total of 2 to 3 hours of daytime sleep.

Nap Schedule

  • Many babies at this age have a morning nap and an afternoon nap.
  • Be attentive to your baby’s cues for tiredness, as they may show signs of sleepiness after being awake for 2 to 3 hours.

How to Feed Your 10-Month-Old Baby

Breast Milk or Formula

  • Offer around 2-4 ounces of breast milk or formula alongside solid food during main meals

Solid Foods

  • Introduce a variety of soft foods such as small pieces of tofu or cheese, diced fruit, cooked peas, well-cooked pasta, fruits, vegetables, fortified cereal, unsweetened yogurts, and meats. 
  • Ensure the food is soft enough for them to mash up with their front teeth and handle safely

Encouraging Self-Feeding

  • Encourage self-feeding by letting your baby handle a spoon and offering finger foods to help them feed themselves.

Variety of Tastes and Textures

  • Offer your baby a variety of tastes and textures from all food groups. 

Whole-Grain Options

  • Many 9- to 12-month-olds enjoy eating whole-grain baby cereals, cooked noodles, bread, and rice. Aim for whole-grain options when possible

Day in the Life of a 10-Month-Old Baby

Feeding

  • 2-4 ounces of breast milk or formula alongside solid food during main meals
  • 3–4 nursing sessions or bottles per day
  • Introduce a variety of soft foods

Sleeping

  • 10 to 12 hours each night and have two naps during the day
  • Around this age, your baby may develop separation anxiety, becoming upset when they’re away from you or can’t see you
  • If a daylight-saving time change is coming up, this can prompt sleep disruption. Adjust your baby’s sleep schedule accordingly

Bathing

  • Babies at this age typically need to be bathed about 3 times a week
  • Establishing a bath time routine can be helpful for both you and your baby

Changing Diapers

  • A baby may go through about 5-7 diapers a day
  • Diaper changes can be an opportunity to connect with your baby

Playing

  • Peek-a-Boo. Playing peek-a-boo with your baby can provide lots of entertainment and help boost their cognitive development
  • Imitating Sounds and Gestures. Encourage your baby to imitate simple actions and sounds, such as clapping, waving, or making animal noises, to support their language and communication skills
  • Stacking and Sorting. Providing safe, age-appropriate toys for stacking and sorting can support your baby’s fine motor skills and cognitive development

Fun Facts

  • Physical Development. Your baby may be crawling, pulling themselves up to stand, and walking with support. They may also be able to walk a few steps without holding on and stand up unassisted for a short time
  • Language Development. Your baby may be starting to say real words such as “Mama,” “Dada,” “ball,” and “bye-bye,” and maybe adding more recognizable sounds and gestures to their communication skills

Baby’s Health at 10-Month-Old

Ensuring the health and well-being of your 10-month-old involves a combination of attentive care, regular check-ups, and a supportive environment. Here are key aspects to consider for your baby’s health at 10 months:

Well-Baby Check-ups

  • Schedule regular check-ups with your pediatrician to monitor your baby’s growth and development.
  • Stay up-to-date on vaccinations as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Nutrition

  • Offer a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein sources, and dairy.
  • Introduce new foods gradually, watching for any signs of allergies or sensitivities.

Hydration

  • Encourage your baby to drink water from a sippy cup or small open cup.
  • Monitor their fluid intake, especially during warmer weather or if they are more active.

Physical Activity

  • Promote physical activity through supervised play and exploration.
  • Encourage crawling, standing, and supported walking to enhance motor skills.

Oral Health

  • Begin oral care by wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth.
  • If teeth have erupted, introduce a soft toothbrush and begin a gentle brushing routine.

Eye and Ear Health

  • Monitor your baby’s vision and hearing.
  • If you notice any concerns, discuss them with your pediatrician for further evaluation.

Allergies and Sensitivities

  • Be aware of potential allergens when introducing new foods.
  • Monitor for any signs of allergic reactions and consult your pediatrician if needed.

Items Needed on the 10th Month of Your Baby

Sippy Cups

  • Introducing your baby to a sippy cup or straw cup at this age can help them develop their motor skills and coordination

Baby Toys

  • Provide your baby with age-appropriate toys such as stacking cups, bath toys, an unbreakable mirror, building blocks, and large dolls to stimulate their cognitive and sensory development

Books

  • Reading books to your baby is not only a great opportunity for bonding but also helps stimulate their cognitive development and language skills

Diapers, Wipes, and Diaper Rash Cream 

  • As your baby grows, they will require more frequent diaper changes, so having a good supply of diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream is essential

Baby Toothbrush

  • Introducing a baby toothbrush can help your baby get used to oral hygiene and prevent tooth decay

Nursery Furniture and Gear

  • As your baby grows, they will need appropriate furniture and gear for their sleeping, eating, and playing needs

Life as a Parent on Baby’s 10th Month

Entering the tenth month of your baby’s life brings forth even more wonders and adventures in parenthood. Let’s explore the unique aspects of this stage, ensuring a harmonious and enriching experience.

Mobility Mastery

  • Your little one is likely mastering the art of walking or showing signs of it. Create a safe space for exploration, and celebrate the joyous moments as they take their first steps. Support their newfound mobility with interactive play.

Developing Independence

  • Independence begins to blossom. Encourage self-feeding with finger foods, fostering autonomy during mealtimes. Allow your baby to engage in simple tasks, promoting a sense of accomplishment.

Language Blooms

  • Language development continues to flourish. Engage in conversations, read together, and introduce more words. Respond to their attempts at communication, laying the foundation for effective language skills.

Playful Social Interactions

  • Social interactions become more playful. Foster friendships with other toddlers through playdates, aiding in the development of social skills. Encourage sharing and cooperation during these interactions.

Teething Trials

  • Teething may still be a factor. Provide soothing remedies for discomfort, such as teething toys or chilled, safe teethers. Be patient and understanding during this potentially challenging phase.

Sleep Adjustments

  • Sleep patterns may evolve. Establish a consistent bedtime routine, ensuring a calm and soothing environment for quality sleep. Address any sleep challenges with patience and understanding.

Checklist for the 10th Month of Your Baby

As your baby hits the 10-month milestone, ensure their continued growth and well-being with this comprehensive checklist:

Varied Diet

  • Introduce a diverse range of foods to support your baby’s nutritional needs. Offer small, bite-sized portions of soft fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich options.

Self-Feeding Skills

  • Encourage self-feeding with finger foods and a spoon. Provide opportunities for your baby to practice holding utensils and feeding themselves.

Transition to Whole Milk

  • If your baby’s pediatrician recommends it, consider transitioning from formula or breast milk to whole milk. Discuss the appropriate timing and quantity with your healthcare provider.

Cruising and Standing

  • Support your baby’s growing mobility by providing safe spaces for cruising and standing. Consider furniture or toys that aid in these developmental milestones.

Expanded Vocabulary

  • Foster language development by engaging in conversations, reading books, and introducing new words. Respond to your baby’s attempts at communication.

Dental Care

  • Continue brushing your baby’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-fluoride toothpaste. Schedule regular dental checkups.

Sleep Schedule

  • Maintain a consistent sleep routine with 10-12 hours of nighttime sleep and 2-3 naps during the day. Adjust the bedtime routine as needed.

Exploration Toys

  • Provide age-appropriate toys that stimulate curiosity and problem-solving skills. Consider toys that encourage stacking, sorting, and imaginative play.

Safety Measures

  • Reevaluate babyproofing measures to account for your baby’s increased mobility. Secure heavy furniture, cover sharp edges and ensure a safe play environment.

Immunization Update

  • Check with your pediatrician to ensure your baby is up-to-date on vaccinations. Discuss any additional vaccines recommended for the 10-month age range.

Regular Check-ups

  • Schedule routine well-baby visits with the pediatrician to monitor growth, and development, and address any concerns.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Take your baby outdoors for fresh air and exploration. Ensure they are appropriately dressed for the weather and use baby-friendly sunscreen.

Social Interaction

  • Encourage socialization by arranging playdates with other babies or attending parent-baby groups. Positive interactions support emotional development.

Last Updated on January 15, 2024