Children usually progress in a natural, predictable sequence from one developmental milestone to the next. But each child grows and gains skills at his or her own pace. Some children may be advanced in one area, such as language, but behind in another, such as sensory and motor development. Milestones usually are categorized into five major areas: physical growth, cognitive development, emotional and social development, language development, and sensory and motor development. What most babies do at 18 months: Social and 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 he/she wants
Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving)
- Knows what ordinary things are for; for example, telephone, brush, spoon
- Points to get the attention of others
- Shows interest in a doll or stuffed animal by pretending to feed
- Points to one body part
- Scribbles on his/her 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 herself/himself
- Drinks from a cup
- Eats with a spoon
*Act early by talking to your child’s doctor if your child*
- Doesn’t point to show things to others
- Can’t walk
- Doesn’t know what familiar things are for
- Doesn’t copy others
- Doesn’t gain new words
- Doesn’t have at least 6 wordsDoesn’t notice or mind when a caregiver leaves or returns
- Loses skills he once had
PLAY RECOMMENDATIONS
- Encourage and provide the necessary space for physical activity
- Allow the child to help around the house and participate in the family’s daily responsibilities
- Encourage play that involves building and creativity
- Read to the child
- Encourage play dates with children of the same age
- Avoid television time before age 2
- Play simple games together, such as puzzles and shape sorting
- A transitional object may help separation anxiety
If you have any questions or concerns, contact speech-language pathologist, Christine Wilson.