18 month milestones
What most children can do by 18 months, from the CDC's 2022 checklist. Tick what your child does; it saves on this device.
Checklist: by 18 months
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Social & emotional
Language & communication
Thinking & problem-solving
Movement & physical
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Try this at 18 months
The AAP recommends autism screening at the 18- and 24-month checkups. Mention any worries at the visit.
Born early? Use corrected age (from the due date) until about age 2.
When to talk to your pediatrician
Call your pediatrician today
- Your child can’t do one or more of these by 18 months
- Loses skills they once had, at any age
- Doesn’t respond to sounds or their name
- Doesn’t make eye contact or smile back by 6 months
- You have a feeling something isn’t right. Trust it and ask.
General guidance based on AAP, NHS and CDC advice, not a diagnosis. If your gut says something is wrong, call your pediatrician or nurse line. You never need permission to seek care.
Questions parents ask
What should a 18-month-old be doing?
By 18 months, most children (75% or more, per the CDC): moves away from you, but looks to make sure you are close by; tries to say three or more words besides “mama” or “dada”; walks without holding on.
What if my child isn't doing all of these at 18 months?
Tell your pediatrician at the next checkup, or call sooner if you are worried. Each item is something most children do by this age, so a missing one is worth discussing but is not a diagnosis. In the US, you can also contact Early Intervention (under 3) or your school district (3+) directly for a free evaluation.