What milestones should a 18-24 months old baby reach?

Key milestones for 18-24 months include: Builds tower of 2-4 blocks, Sorts shapes/colors, Completes simple puzzles, Follows 2-step directions, Tries switches/knobs/buttons. Every child develops differently, so use these as a general guide.

What cognitive milestones should I look for at 18-24 months?

At 18-24 months, key cognitive milestones include: Builds tower of 2-4 blocks, Sorts shapes/colors, Completes simple puzzles, Follows 2-step directions, Tries switches/knobs/buttons, Uses objects in pretend play (banana as phone), Begins to understand mine vs yours.

What language/communication milestones should I look for at 18-24 months?

At 18-24 months, key language/communication milestones include: Puts 2+ words together, Points to things in book when asked, Points to 2+ body parts, Uses 'I', 'me', or 'we', Uses 50+ words, Asks simple questions (what's that?), Names familiar pictures in books.

What movement/physical milestones should I look for at 18-24 months?

At 18-24 months, key movement/physical milestones include: Scribbles on own, Throws ball overhand, Kicks ball, Runs, Climbs on/off furniture alone, Jumps with both feet off ground, Walks up stairs with support, Turns book pages one at a time.

What social/emotional milestones should I look for at 18-24 months?

At 18-24 months, key social/emotional milestones include: Notices and copies others, Gets excited when with other children, Shows more independence, Plays next to other children, Shows defiant behavior, Shows empathy and concern for others, Engages in parallel play with peers.

18-24 months Milestones

Here are the key development milestones for babies aged 18-24 months.

Last reviewed: May 2026

Cognitive Language/Communication Movement/Physical Social/Emotional

Cognitive

Builds tower of 2-4 blocks
Sorts shapes/colors
Completes simple puzzles
Follows 2-step directions
Tries switches/knobs/buttons
Uses objects in pretend play (banana as phone)
Begins to understand mine vs yours

Language/Communication

Puts 2+ words together
Points to things in book when asked
Points to 2+ body parts
Uses 'I', 'me', or 'we'
Uses 50+ words
Asks simple questions (what's that?)
Names familiar pictures in books

Movement/Physical

Scribbles on own
Throws ball overhand
Kicks ball
Runs
Climbs on/off furniture alone
Jumps with both feet off ground
Walks up stairs with support
Turns book pages one at a time

What foods to introduce at 18-24 months

Your baby is hitting new milestones — their diet should grow with them. Explore age-appropriate foods, preparation guides, and safety ratings.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician

Every child develops at their own pace, and a wide range of progress is considered typical. However, if you notice that your child is not meeting several milestones for their age group, or if you have any concerns about their development, it's always a good idea to bring it up with your pediatrician. Early conversations with your child's doctor can help you understand what to look for and when additional support may be helpful.

Milestone criteria based on CDC and AAP research — sourced from the CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program, developed in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics. For informational purposes only; not endorsed by or affiliated with the CDC or AAP.