18 months milestones
at 18 months, toddlers are on the move, saying more words, and asserting their independence. tantrums are common as they learn to navigate big emotions with a small vocabulary.
physical milestones
•walks alone (may still be unsteady)
•may walk up steps and run
•pulls toys while walking
•can help undress themselves
•drinks from a cup and eats with a spoon (messily)
•scribbles with crayons
cognitive milestones
•knows what ordinary objects are for (phone, brush, spoon)
•points to get attention of others
•shows interest in a doll or stuffed animal by pretending to feed it
•can follow simple one-step instructions ('pick up the ball')
•can point to one body part when asked
social & emotional milestones
•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 (feeding a doll)
•may cling to caregivers in new situations
language & communication
•says several single words (typically 5–20 words)
•says and shakes head 'no'
•points to show someone what they want
•understands much more than they can say
red flags to watch for
talk to your GP or child health nurse if your child:
- •doesn't point to show things to others
- •can't walk
- •doesn't know what familiar objects 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 they once had
tips for this age
- •set consistent, simple boundaries — toddlers need them
- •name emotions: 'you're feeling frustrated because...'
- •give simple choices: 'red cup or blue cup?'
- •the 18-month immunisation visit includes a developmental check
view all age milestones
from 3 months to 5 years
this information is based on general developmental guidelines from the CDC and Raising Children Network. every child develops differently — these are guides, not checklists. if you have concerns, consult your GP or child health professional.