All toddlers have their own timetable, but you can watch for certain developments around this time. Celebrate with your child as she reaches or nears these milestones.
Cognitive
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May begin to have a sense of time (napping after lunch, bathing before bed)
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Actively explores objects by touch and movement (shaking, banging, throwing)
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Searches for hidden items where last seen
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Puts objects in and takes them out of containers
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Sorts shapes; organizes rings by size
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Looks at picture books by herself
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Points to objects you name (nose, picture of a cat in a book)
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Engages in more pretend games
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Imitates real life in play (feeding a doll, sweeping)
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May follow a two-part command (“Go to the hall and bring me your shoes”)
Motor
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Climbs on furniture, possibly out of her crib
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Walks or at least cruises
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May walk backward and in circles
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May try to kick a ball (not always accurately)
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May be able to run
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May walk up stairs with help
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May dance
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Intentionally releases items from her grasp, closer to 18 months
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Uses a spoon and possibly a fork
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Removes some clothing; extends arms and legs to help when being dressed
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Turns pages
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May begin to scribble
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May throw overhand
Communication
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Tries to copy words you say
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Uses a single word as a sentence (“juice” for “I want juice,” “bye-bye” for “I want to leave now”)
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Says at least five words, by 15 months
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May say up to 30 words, by 18 months
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May start to use simple phrases, 18 to 24 months
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Understands concepts of up, down, off, and hot
Social
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Gets easily frustrated
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Separation anxiety may continue, peaking around 18 months
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May develop an attachment to a security blanket or toy
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Shows preferences for certain people and things
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Increasingly understands that she’s a separate person from you with her own preferences, feelings, and ideas
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May say “no” to express frustration
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May show empathy (for example, pat your back when you’re upset)
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Prefers parallel play (playing next to, rather than with, another child)
