Developmental Milestones

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.