Gross motor

• Starts to walk independently
• Able to squat and pick up items off the floor, mostly without losing balance
• Pulls toys behind him/her when walking
• Pushes light furniture around
• Throws a ball in no specific direction

 Fine motor

• Starts to stack blocks or cups
• Scribbles with crayons with poor control
• Pulls off hat and socks
• Able to use spoon to eat, but still struggles to get spoon in mouth
• Enjoys taking objects out of a container and putting them back in
• Starts putting lids on containers
• Likes to take toys apart
• Pages through a book

 Language

• Follows simple instructions
• Responds to questions by nodding or shaking head “yes” and “no”
• Points to familiar objects/ people in a picture or photo
• Understand the words “in” and “out”
• Knows what most ordinary things are, for example a telephone, spoon or cup
• Starts to make animal noises
• Says between 8 and 20 words you can understand, combined with gibberish

 Cognitive

• Pretend play with dolls or stuffed animals. Will pretend to feed the doll or give the doll milk from a bottle
• Copy everyday tasks such as sweeping the floor or wiping the table

 Social -Emotional

• Starts to explore new areas alone, but parents still need to be close by
• Imitates others e.g. coughing or sneezing
• Like to “perform” in front of an audience and clap hands afterwards
• Temper tantrums become prominent
• Enjoys the company of other children, but still prefers to play alone.

 Sensory and Perceptual

• Can fit a circle and square in a shape puzzle (usually at 16 months)
• Can fit items through the correct hole of a container e.g. a simple shape sorter
• Can identify 1 - 2 body parts

Please note that each baby is different and will reach various milestones at various stages. 

For any milestone or developmental concerns, please speak to a medical professional.