Developmental Milestones

18 months

Check the milestones your child has reached by the end of 18 months.

Take this checklist with you and talk with your child's doctor at every visit about the milestones your child has reached and what to expect next.

Download checklist

What most children do by this age:

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 wants

Cognitive

(learning, thinking, problem-solving)

Movement/
Physical Development

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 words
  • Doesn't notice or mind when a caregiver leaves or returns
  • Loses skills he once had
If You're Concerned – Act Early

Tell your child's doctor or nurse if you notice any of these signs of possible developmental delay for this age, and talk with someone in your community who is familiar with services for young children in your area, such as Early Intervention/Help Me Grow.

For more information, Call 1-800-755-4769 (GROW) or submit the referral form online.

Bold Beginning! milestone checklists are provided by the Center for Disease Control's "Learn the signs. Act early." campaign. Materials are not a substitute for standardized, validated developmental screening tools .