Developmental milestones record - 18 months

Alternative names

Growth milestones for children - 18 months; Normal childhood growth milestones - 18 months; Childhood growth milestones - 18 months

Definition

This article describes the skills and growth markers relevant to 18 month-old children.

Information

Physical and motor-skill markers:

• Anterior fontanel (soft spot on the front of the head) should be closed
  
• Growth slows and appetite declines
  
• The child is physically able to control sphincter muscles, but the child may not be psychologically ready to use the toilet
  
• Able to run, but with a lack of coordination
  
• Falls frequently
  
• Able to jump in place
  
• Able to get onto chairs without assistance
  
• Walks up stairs with one hand held
  
• Can build a tower of 3 to 4 blocks
  
• Imitates scribbling
  
• Can turn the pages of a book two or three at a time
  

Sensory and cognitive markers:

• Can say 10 or more words
  
• Identifies parts of the body
  
• Understands and able to identify through pointing common objects
  
• Frequently imitates
  
• Feeds self
  
• 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