What to Expect at Your Baby's 12-Month Check

By Priya Elkins, Early Years Contributor | Baby & Toddler Column | Childcare Standards Council

Your baby’s first year is packed with exciting milestones and discoveries. Around the 12 month mark, your little one will have their important health and development check, a key moment to celebrate how much they’ve grown and to ensure they’re on track.

If you’re wondering what happens at your baby’s 12 month check, this guide will help you feel prepared, informed, and confident ahead of the appointment.

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Why the 12 Month Check Matters

The 12 month check is a routine appointment offered by the NHS and health visitors across the UK.

It’s designed to:

• Assess your baby’s physical growth and health

• Monitor developmental progress

• Provide you with advice and support on feeding, sleep, and safety

• Offer vaccinations as part of the immunisation schedule

• Give you an opportunity to ask questions or discuss any concerns

This check is a chance to celebrate your baby’s first year and set the stage for the months ahead.

What Happens During the Check?

Your baby’s health visitor or GP will carry out a thorough yet gentle assessment, often lasting around 30 minutes. Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Measuring Growth

Your baby will be weighed, and their length and head circumference measured. These numbers are plotted on a growth chart to check that your baby is growing steadily. Small fluctuations are normal; the focus is on overall growth patterns rather than single readings.

2. Developmental Screening

The health professional will ask about your baby’s abilities to check how they’re developing across key areas:

• Movement and coordination: Can they stand, cruise along furniture, or maybe take a few steps?

• Communication: Are they babbling, saying simple words like “mama” or “dada”, or responding to their name?

• Social interaction: Do they enjoy playing simple games like peekaboo or respond to facial expressions?

• Problem solving: Can they explore objects, use gestures like pointing, or show curiosity?

These questions help identify any delays early so support can be offered if needed.

3. Physical Examination

Your baby’s health visitor or GP will gently check their eyes, ears, mouth, heart, lungs, and abdomen to make sure everything looks healthy. They’ll also observe your baby’s posture and muscle tone.

4. Vaccinations

At 12 months, your baby will usually receive important immunisations as part of the NHS vaccination schedule, including the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) and possibly a Hib/MenC booster.

If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, don’t hesitate to ask your health visitor; they’re there to support you.

Preparing for the Appointment

A little preparation can help the appointment run smoothly:

• Bring your baby’s red book (Personal Child Health Record). This booklet holds your baby’s growth records and immunisation history.

• Make a list of questions or concerns. Whether it’s about feeding, sleep, behaviour, or development, this is your time to get advice.

• Bring a favourite toy or comfort item. This can help your baby stay calm during the examination.

• Dress your baby in easy to remove clothing. It makes the physical checks quicker and easier.

Common Questions at the 12 Month Check

Here are some typical questions parents often ask during the 12 month check, along with clear, kind answers:

Is it normal for my baby not to be walking yet?

Yes! Babies develop at their own pace. While many take their first steps between 9 and 15 months, some start later. Crawling, cruising, and exploring in other ways are all positive signs of developing strength and coordination.

What should my baby be eating now?

By 12 months, most babies eat a wide variety of solid foods alongside milk (breast or formula). Encourage family meals with soft finger foods and avoid added sugar or salt. Whole cow’s milk can be introduced as a drink after 12 months, but continue breastfeeding if you and your baby wish.

How much sleep should my baby be getting?

Typically, a 12 month old needs around 11 to 14 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period, including one or two daytime naps. However, sleep patterns vary widely. Establishing consistent bedtime routines can help with better rest.

What if I’m worried about my baby’s behaviour or development?

Always share your concerns during the check. Early support is available for many developmental delays or behavioural challenges. Your health visitor can refer you to specialist services if needed.

Additional Tips for Supporting Your Baby’s Development at 12 Months

• Encourage exploration and play. Offer safe spaces where your baby can move freely and discover new textures and objects.

• Talk and read to your baby. Language rich environments support communication skills and bonding.

• Introduce simple routines. Predictability helps your baby feel secure and understand daily rhythms.

• Offer choices when possible. Even simple options (“red cup or blue cup?”) help develop independence.

The Role of the 12 Month Check in Your Baby’s Health Journey

This appointment is part of a larger picture of monitoring and supporting your child’s health and wellbeing. Regular checks, such as the 6 to 8 week and 2 to 2.5 year reviews, work together to build a detailed understanding of your child’s needs.

If your baby misses their 12 month check, try to reschedule as soon as possible. These appointments are invaluable for ensuring your baby’s health and development remain on track.

When to Seek Advice Between Checks

Sometimes, you might notice behaviours or signs that worry you outside of scheduled appointments, such as:

• Lack of eye contact or response to sounds

• Not babbling or using gestures like waving

• Persistent feeding difficulties or poor weight gain

• Extreme irritability or changes in behaviour

• Delays in movement, such as not attempting to crawl or stand by 12 months

If any of these concern you, speak with your health visitor or GP promptly. Early intervention can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

Your baby’s 12 month check is an important milestone, providing reassurance and guidance during an exciting stage of growth. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your baby’s achievements and ensure they’re getting the support they need to thrive.

Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. The most valuable thing you can do is to keep observing, asking questions, and enjoying this precious time together.