Play time, nap time and first shoes
Play time
In the early months of their life, your role in your child’s development is simple: lots of love and attention. Then as your baby becomes more aware of their surroundings, games and toys will help stimulate the brain connections that guide development. Toys should appeal to some or all of their five senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste).
Stacking toys, shape sorters and building blocks are ideal toys for a 15-month-old. These toys are all great for building fine motor skills, encouraging finger and thumb movements and promote problem-solving.
Other fun games for your toddler:
• Play ball: This is a perfect age for rolling and bouncing a ball together.
• Drawing: Your tot will love scribbling with a few crayons and recognising the different colours.
• Story time: Your toddler probably has a few favourite books, encourage her to point to the pictures when you ask her to identify the objects.
Stacking toys, shape sorters and building blocks are ideal toys for a 15-month-old. (Image: Getty Images)
Nap time
Wondering when your 15 month old is going to transition from two naps a day to one? Her sleep schedule will usually start to shift around 15-18 months. Look for clues she’s ready drop a nap, she might consistently refuse one; she may nap for a shorter period than before; or her napping schedule might go out the window!
Spotted the signs? Aim to push her morning sleep later, eventually aiming for a 12pm bedtime. She will then have one long sleep in the middle of the day and will not need an afternoon nap.
This shift in sleeping patterns can take a while, so don’t be surprised if there are some days when she’s fine with one nap and on other days it’s clear she needs two.
First shoes
It’s a good idea to let your toddler go barefoot as much as possible as this allows her to improve her balance and coordination. Also, her feet can only grow properly if they are free and not cramped by shoes or tight socks. But, when your 15 month old is walking outside, or on a rough or cold surface it’s time to pop on some shoes.
When shopping for first shoes, choose a pair with a sole that is flexible enough to allow natural foot movement while your child is learning to walk confidently.
Remember, children reach development milestones in their own time and some toddlers don’t walk until they are 17 months or 18 months old. As long as your toddler’s legs are growing stronger, and she can bear weight on them, she’s doing fine. If you’re concerned see your healthcare provider for advice.
