Developmental Milestone: 18 Months
It’s time for developmental screening!
At 18 months, your child is due for general developmental screening, as recommended for all children by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Ask the doctor about your child’s developmental screening.
What Most Children Do by this Age:
Social/Emotional:
Likes to hand things to others as play
May have temper tantrums
May be afraid of strangers
Shows affection to familiar people
Plays simple pretend, such as feeding a doll
May cling to caregivers in new situations
Points to show others something interesting
Explores alone but with parent close by
Language/Communication:
Says several single words
Says and shakes head “no”
Points to show someone what they want
Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving):
Knows what ordinary things are for; for example, a telephone, a brush, a spoon
Points to get the attention of others
Shows interest in a doll or stuffed animal by pretending to feed it
Points to one body part
Scribbles on their own
Can follow 1-step verbal commands without any gestures; for example, sits when you say “sit down”
Movement/Physical Development:
Walks alone
May walk up steps and run
Pulls toys while walking
Can help undress themself
Drinks from a cup
Eats with a spoon
What You Can Do for Your 18-Month-Old:
Provide a safe, loving environment. It’s important to be consistent and predictable.
Praise good behaviors more than you punish bad behaviors (use only very brief time-outs).
Describe their emotions. For example, say, “You are happy when we read this book.”
Encourage pretend play.
Encourage empathy. For example, when they see a sad child, encourage them to hug or pat the other child.
Read books and talk about the pictures using simple words.
Copy your child’s words.
Use words that describe feelings and emotions.
Use simple, clear phrases.
Ask simple questions.
Provide toys that encourage pretend play; for example, dolls, play telephones. Hide things under blankets and pillows and encourage them to find them.
Play with blocks, balls, puzzles, books, and toys that teach cause and effect and problem solving.
Name pictures in books and body parts.
Provide safe areas for your child to walk and move around in.
Provide toys that they can push or pull safely.
Provide balls for them to kick, roll, and throw.
Encourage them to drink from their cup and use a spoon, no matter how messy.
Blow bubbles and let your child pop them.