Key Milestones for 15-Month-Old Babies
Social/Emotional Milestones
- Copies other children while playing, like taking toys out of a container when another child does
- Shows you an object she likes
- Claps when excited
- Hugs stuffed doll or other toy
- Shows you affection (hugs, cuddles, or kisses you)
Language/Communication Milestones
- Tries to say one or two words besides "mama" or "dada," like "ba" for ball or "da" for dog
- Looks at a familiar object when you name it
- Follows directions given with both a gesture and words. For example, he gives you a toy when you hold out your hand and say, "Give me the toy."
- Points to ask for something or to get help
Cognitive Milestones (Learning, Thinking, Problem-Solving)
- Tries to use things the right way, like a phone, cup, or book
- Stacks at least two small objects, like blocks
Movement/Physical Development Milestones
- Takes a few steps on his own
- Uses fingers to feed herself some food
When to Worry
You know your child best. Don't wait.
If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early.
Talk with your child's doctor:
- Share your concerns
- Ask about developmental screening
- Get a referral to a specialist if needed
Contact Early Intervention Services:
If you have concerns about your child's development, contact your local early intervention program for evaluation and support services.
If you or the doctor are still concerned:
- Ask for a referral to a specialist who can evaluate your child more thoroughly
For more on how to help your child:
Visit cdc.gov/Concerned for additional resources and guidance.
Help Your Child Learn and Grow
As your child's first teacher, you can help his or her learning and brain development. Try these simple tips and activities in a safe way. Talk with your child's doctor and teachers if you have questions or for more ideas on how to help your child's development.
Help your child learn to speak. Repeat and add to what he says. He may say "ba" for ball and you can say "Ball, yes, that's a ball."
Tell your child the names of objects when he points to them and wait a few seconds to see if he makes any sounds before handing it to him.
Find ways to let your child help with everyday activities. Let her get her shoes to go outside, put the snacks in the bag for the park, or put the socks in the basket.
Have steady routines for sleeping and feeding. Children between 1 and 2 years of age need 11 to 14 hours of sleep a day (including naps).
Show your child different things, such as a hat. Ask him, "What do you do with a hat? You put it on your head." Put it on your head and then give it to him to see if he copies you.
Sing songs with gestures, such as "Wheels on the Bus." See if your child tries to do some of the actions.
Say what you think your child is feeling (for example, sad, mad, frustrated, happy). Use your words, facial expressions, and voice to show what you think she is feeling.
Expect tantrums. They are normal at this age and are more likely if your child is tired or hungry. Tantrums should become shorter and happen less as he gets older.
Teach your child "wanted behaviors." Show her what to do and use positive words or give her hugs and kisses when she does it.
Limit screen time (TV, tablets, phones, etc.) to video calling with loved ones. Screen time is not recommended for children younger than 2 years of age.
Encourage your child to play with blocks. You can stack the blocks and she can knock them down.
Let your child use a cup without a lid for drinking and practice eating with a spoon. Learning to eat and drink is messy but fun!
Download Your 15-Month Milestone Checklist
Free Milestone Checklist
Download our comprehensive 15-month milestone checklist to track your child's development. Take it with you to doctor visits and use it to monitor progress at home.
No email required • Instant download • Based on WHO & CDC standards
Other Important Things to Share with the Doctor
Questions to Discuss:
- What are some things you and your child do together?
- What are some things your child likes to do?
- Is there anything your child does or does not do that concerns you?
- Has your child lost any skills he/she once had?
- Does your child have any special healthcare needs or was he/she born prematurely?
Safety Reminders:
- Do not shake your child or allow anyone else to—ever!
- Do not leave your child alone during play time
- Place child on back in safe sleep area when sleepy
- Watch for signs of hunger and fullness