Lifespan's A - Z Health Information Library

Skills and growth milestones relevant to 18-month-old children mark the physical and mental development that is expected for this age.

PHYSICAL AND MOTOR SKILL MARKERS

The typical 18 month old:

• Has a closed anterior fontanel (soft spot on the front of the head)
• Is growing at a slower rate and has less of an appetite compared to previous months
• Is physically able to control sphincter muscles, but may not be psychologically ready to use the toilet
• Runs with a lack of coordination and falls frequently
• Jumps in place
• Is able to get onto chairs without assistance
• Walks up stairs while holding on with one hand
• Can build a tower of 2 - 3 blocks
• Can use a spoon and cup with help
• Imitates scribbling
• Can turn the pages of a book 2 or 3 at a time

SENSORY AND COGNITIVE MARKERS

The typical 18 month old

• Shows affection
• Listens to a story or looks at pictures
• Can say 10 or more words when asked
• Identifies parts of the body
• Understands and is able to point to and identify common objects
• Frequently imitates
• Feeds self
• Is able to take off some clothing items, such as gloves, shoes, and socks
• Begins to feel a sense of ownership identifying people and objects by saying "my"

PLAY RECOMMENDATIONS

• Encourage and provide the necessary space for physical activity
• Provide safe replicas of adult tools and equipment for the child to play with
• Allow the child to help around the house and participate in the daily responsibilities of the family
• Encourage play that involves building and creativity
• Read to the child
• Control the type and quantity of television viewing
• Control the type and quantity of games played