Your child has officially entered the toddler years! At 18 months old, your toddler is growing fast and likely learning new things every day. With so many changes happening at once, it’s natural to wonder, “Is my child on track?”
At your child’s 18-month well-check exam, the pediatrician will ask questions about how your child plays, learns, speaks, and moves. These questions help track your child’s development and make sure everything is going as expected.
Look for these milestones* at 18 months
Vecino pediatricians screen for these and other developmental milestones at Well Check Exams at 18 month. Keep in mind that every child develops at their own rate and there is a wide range of what is considered normal.
Social/Emotional Milestones
Shows you something interesting by pointing
Looks at a few pages in a book with you
Language/Communication Milestones
Says at least three words besides “mama” and “dada”
Follows one-step directions
Cognitive Milestones
Copies adults doing simple tasks
Plays with toys in a simple way
Movement/Physical Development Milestones
Walks without holding on to anyone or anything
Scribbles with crayons or markers
*These are just some of the milestones type for an 18-month-old. For a comprehensive list, refer to the CDC’s Developmental Milestones or talk to your pediatrician.
You know your child best. If your child isn’t doing some of these things, has lost skills they used to have, or if you have concerns about their development, talk to your pediatrician. Acting early can make a big difference.
Frequent Well Check Exams are important for every child’s health and healthy development, especially in their first three years.
At the 18-month visit, your pediatrician will:
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Check your child’s growth and nutrition
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Make sure vaccines are up to date
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Screen for autism
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Answer any questions you have
Schedule Well Check Exams for your children at these ages:
newborn (before 5 days old) • 2 weeks • 2 months • 4 months • 6 months • 9 months • 12 months • 15 months • 18 months • 2 years (24 months) •2-1/2 years (30 months) • 3 years • 4 years • 5 years • once a year for older children.
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