18 Months
Welcome to the 18-month milestone!
Your toddler is full of energy, curiosity, and growing confidence. Around this age, many children are running, climbing, using more words, and showing strong preferences and emotions. You might notice them engaging in pretend play, following simple instructions, and becoming more social with others. It’s a time of big developmental leaps as they continue to explore their independence. Below, you’ll find helpful resources to support your child’s movement, language, behavior, and overall well-being during this fun and busy stage.
Activity Corner
Looking for a fun way to bond with your little one?
Try sorting and stacking games! Whether it’s stacking blocks or matching shapes, these playful activities help your child develop important motor skills and problem-solving abilities — all while having fun together. It’s a simple and joyful way to support their cognitive growth and spend quality time with them.
Tod-Tidbit
Did you know?
Too much screen time has been linked to language delays and emotional difficulties in young children. For the best development, children under 2 years old should avoid screen time altogether — with the exception of video chatting to stay connected with loved ones. After age 2, it’s recommended to limit screen time to 1 hour or less per day. Choosing quality content and watching together can help make screen time more meaningful!
Healthy Habits
At 18 months old, your child should have an enhanced well-baby visit with their physician. This visit helps screen for developmental concerns and autism, and it also monitors speech and language development. To learn more about this visit and access helpful resources, click here.
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We understand that not all families have a primary care provider. If you're concerned about your child's development, you can contact CHEO’s Access Team to be connected with the appropriate care.
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In Ontario, if you're specifically worried about a speech delay, you can complete the First Words online screening tool to help guide your next steps.
Struggling after having a baby? You’re not alone.
Postpartum Support International offers free, confidential help for parents dealing with postpartum depression, anxiety, and other perinatal mental health challenges. Whether you need someone to talk to or want to connect with local resources, support is just a click away.
18 Month Milestones
Download the CDC Milestone Checklists
Want a printable version? The CDC Developmental Milestone Checklists provide age-specific milestones from 2 months to 5 years, helping you track your child's growth, learning, communication, and movement skills. These checklists are a great tool to use at home and can help guide conversations with your healthcare provider.
Track Milestones on Your Phone
The free CDC Milestone Tracker app makes it easy to monitor your child's development wherever you are. Use interactive milestone checklists, save photos and notes, receive tips to support development, and prepare questions for healthcare visits—all from your smartphone.
Concerned About Your Child's Development?
You know your child best. If your baby is not meeting one or more developmental milestones, has lost skills they once had, or if you have any concerns about their development, don’t wait, trust your instincts and seek support.
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Start by talking with your child’s healthcare provider. Share your concerns and ask about developmental screening. Early identification and support can make a big difference.
Don’t have a family doctor or pediatrician? Visit our Parent Resources page to find local services, healthcare supports, and developmental resources available to families in Ottawa and Ontario
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Remember: every child develops at their own pace, but acting early when you have concerns can help ensure your child gets the support they need.
Sources & References
The information on this page was developed using current evidence, clinical guidelines, and trusted healthcare resources.