AGE 1
(12 to 23 Months)
What to Look For This Year
The toddler years are full of big leaps and a whole lot of personality. Here’s what you might see as your 1-year-old grows and explores their world.
Communication & Language
☐ Understands simple instructions like “come here” or “sit down”
☐ Points to show you what they want
☐ Uses simple gestures like waving or shaking head “no”
☐ Says 5–20 words by 18 months
☐ Begins to combine two words by 24 months (e.g., “more milk”)
Movement & Motor Skills
☐ Walks independently
☐ Squats to pick up toys and stands back up
☐ Climbs on furniture
☐ Pulls toys while walking
☐ Begins to run and kick a ball by 24 months
Play & Learning
☐ Imitates actions like brushing hair or pretending to feed a doll
☐ Shows interest in cause-and-effect toys (like buttons or pop- ups)
☐ Begins sorting shapes and colors
☐ Stacks 2–4 blocks
☐ Recognizes familiar pictures in books
Social & Emotional
☐ Cries when you leave but may start to recover faster
☐ Enjoys simple games like peekaboo or pat-a- cake
☐ Shows affection to familiar people
☐ May have tantrums when frustrated
☐ Starts to show independence (“me do it!”).
NEXT STEPS
Every toddler grows in their own way. If you feel your child isn’t meeting several of these milestones or if you have questions, bring them up with your pediatrician. You know your child best.
STAY CONNECTED
Love checklists like this? More age-specific guides and printable activities are coming soon! Scan the QR code or visit our site.
Additional Resources
Created with love by Centers and Circle Time | www.centersandcircletime.com