Definition
Skills and growth milestones relevant to 18-month-old children mark the physical and mental development that is expected for this age.
Alternative Names
Growth milestones for children - 18 months; Normal childhood growth milestones - 18 months; Childhood growth milestones - 18 months
Information
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
