Typical Development Through the Lens of a Therapist: 12-18 months

What is Typical Development? This is a common question asked, searched, and wondered by many parents since the pandemic. The internet has a variety of mixed developmental milestones that can make this google search very confusing. Our speech therapists and occupational therapists have done intensive research on this subject as well as seen many children with a variety of diagnoses throughout their years of experience. Here is what a typical developing child should be doing at 12-18 months of age!

Speech and Language:

Receptive Language (what you understand):

understands many words and simple commands
understands the word “no”
begins to understand simple yes/no questions
words are understood outside of routine games. routine games include “ready, set, go” and “one, two, three”

Expressive Language (verbal language):

uses one-word utterances
says up to 50+ different words and uses gestures to help convey message
uses over extensions (e.g., calls all animals “dogs”)
first words are mostly for commenting (actions, objects, people, existence)

Play/Social Development:

communicates with others about 5 times per minute
reacts strongly to separation from parent
brings toys to share with parent (15-18 months)
laughs in response to silly events
begins to prefer interaction with peers

Occupational Therapy:

Fine/Visual Motor:

points using index finger
scribbles on paper
uses fine pincer grasp
plays with toys at midline
attempts simple puzzles
holds object in both hands
stacks blocks

Gross Motor Skills:

maintains kneeling balance while rotating head
walks independently
climbs up stairs (hands and knees)
climbs down backwards
squats to pick up toys
beginning to run
throws a ball

Self-help Skills:

uses spoon (can be messy)
holds and drinks from a cup
takes off shoes and socks
shows discomfort when wet

Sensory Processing (regulation):

enjoys messy play
reacts to sensations (sound, sight, touch, taste)

Cognition:

understands how objects work
identifies body parts
uses trial and error and problem solving in pretend play

Contact Express Yourself Therapy to receive more information!