Children's Age-by-Age Guide: 18 Month to 2 Years

Physical Milestones

Your little one is off and running! He's climbing, too, and can kick a ball without tripping. His newfound dexterity extends to his fingers and hands; now he's able to use his hands to drink from a cup with ease, and his fingers begin to draw circles, somewhat crudely at first. He still lacks the self-control needed to express his anger and frustration in words and may resort to biting, hitting, or hair pulling.

Smart Strategy

Keep aggressive behavior in check by making sure your child gets plenty of physical play each day. Play catch, kick the soccer ball, or go to a playground so he can climb on the equipment and run in the grass.

Doing things by herself, when she wants to do them, is all-important to your little one now. She'll begin to test you-she may climb out of her crib or hide in closets. She is trying desperately to learn how to balance her need for security with her desire for autonomy. As she struggles, she can have a hard time making decisions-should she do this or shouldn't she? The tension she feels from this frustration can cause her to wake at night.

Smart Strategy

Although you can't really help your child master her struggle for independence, you can set firm limits but allow her to make her own choices when possible. Be consistent, especially in dealing with tantrums, for what you convey to her over time will eventually lead to self-discipline.

Emotional Milestones

Your child may form a strong attachment to a "lovey" or transitional object like a blanket or stuffed animal, which he may want to carry everywhere he goes. He's likely to throw a temper tantrum when he is unable to master a task, communicate a desire, or understand something. He may also misbehave when he is afraid, especially if his normal routine changes. He is also gaining an awareness of other people's feelings; he can tell what mood you are in and he realizes that his behavior affects your behavior.

Smart Strategy

Don't view your child's desire to carry around a "lovey" as babyish; it helps him feel secure, and it's perfectly age-appropriate. Now is the time to encourage your child to express his feelings through pretend play ("Teddy is sad because it's raining and he can't go outside to play"). Keep in mind that fears are also normal at this age. Reassure your child often and provide extra opportunities for closeness. Sitting together and reading a book is a great way to do just that.

Vocabulary and sentence structure improve rapidly at thisage. Your child is able to follow simple commands and use two- to four-word sentences, as well as simple phrases like "all gone" and "so big!" She can recognize names of familiar people, objects and body parts, and is beginning to play make believe. She'll follow you around the house and do whatever you do. "No"is her favorite word and she's becoming possessive about her toys and clothes.

Smart Strategy

You can help your child improve her memory by repeating experiences and labeling everything she sees. Don't be too alarmed by her emerging love of the word "no." It's part of her developing self-esteem. She's learning that she has some control over herself and that she's a separate being from you. Imitating others is also a way for her to learn how the world works, so be generous in your encouragement.

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