Alternative names 
Growth milestones for children - 18 months; Normal childhood growth milestones - 18 months; Developmental milestones record - 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

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.