Behaviour and emotions
At this age, your child is eager to learn about everything he sees and enjoys playing and experimenting. As play is crucial in the development of your child’s reasoning and creativity, you may want to play games like asking him to search for hidden toys or identify body parts when you name them. Your child might also start engaging in imaginative play by imitating your day-to-day actions like putting on shoes and talking on the phone. Beating and throwing items may also be observed in your child’s behavior if he sees such actions performed by others.
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Communication and language
At 15 months, your child is beginning to recognize his name and you may start to hear him say several words. His vocabulary will gradually improve and you will hear him identifying various objects and actions. By 18 months, your child should be able to comprehend and carry out simple instructions such as fetching items for you.
Motor skills and physical development
If it has been some time since your child started walking, he may soon learn to run or climb the stairs or furniture. However, do not worry if he has yet to start walking as he will likely begin walking in the following few months.
By 18 months, your child will gain more control over his hand and arm movements and may be able to use a spoon or start doodling with a pencil. Additionally, he may be able to grab tiny objects like buttons or pebbles. As such, you should constantly supervise your child’s actions and the item he picks up in case he tries to consume it. Some other actions you may observe your child performing include undressing on his own and drinking from a cup.
Activities to Stimulate Toddler’s Development
Brimming with curiosity and busy exploring the world around- Stay close to your child while he plays as it builds his confidence to discover new things by himself. It also shapes him to be self-reliant and self-confident as he grows.
Urge him to play with other children as it helps him to learn how to make friends and interact with others. However, you should beware that he may not have grasped the concept of sharing at this stage
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Warning Signs to Look Out For
When should you seek medical help?You should visit a doctor if you notice your child facing the following issues at 18 months:
- Difficulty seeing or hearing
- Does not say a single word
- Does not follow basic commands
- Does not point, wave or use any gestures
- Dislike eye contact or hugs
- Unable to perform skills that he used to have
- Unable to walk on his own
Uses one hand more than the other
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By the end of 18 months, your toddler can:
- Listen to stories and looks at pictures
- Experience a reduced appetite as the growth rate slows
- Run, but may be uncoordinated, and may fall frequently
- Walk up stairs, holding on with one hand
- Take off some clothing items, such as socks or gloves
- Feed him or herself
