21 Month Old Baby

Your 21-month-old: body parts, running and following instructions.
Average weight at 21 monthsGirls 10.9 kg (23.9 lb)
Boys 11.5 kg (25.5 lb)
Average length at 21 monthsGirls 83.7 cm (32.9 in)
Boys 85.1 cm (33.5 in)

50th percentile (median) on the WHO Child Growth Standards. Healthy babies vary widely around these numbers.

Development at 21 months

Your toddler can point to some body parts and follow simple instructions. They are more coordinated and love to move.

What you might notice

  • Points to some body parts when asked
  • Runs and climbs
  • Follows simple instructions
  • Uses a spoon more often
  • Shows more independence

Feeding

Offer three meals and two or three healthy snacks a day, eating together as a family when you can. The AAP suggests about 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 oz) of milk a day for toddlers, and no juice is needed. Keep offering new foods: it can take many tries before a child accepts one.

Sleep

Toddlers usually need 11 to 14 hours of sleep in 24 hours, including one nap. A regular bedtime and a calm routine help.

Your checklist this month

  • Play naming games with body parts.
  • Give simple, clear instructions.
  • Offer a balance of active and quiet play.

Is your baby growing well?

Check weight, length and head size on WHO charts with our Baby Growth Percentile Calculator, or work out your baby’s exact age with the Baby Age Calculator.

When to get medical help

  • A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher in a baby under 3 months
  • Breathing that is fast, noisy or hard work
  • Fewer wet nappies than usual or refusing feeds
  • Unusually sleepy, floppy or hard to wake
  • A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
  • Repeated vomiting, or green vomit

In an emergency, call your local emergency number.

Based on WHO and CDC guidance. Every baby develops at their own pace.