Your baby at 15 months: milestones, feeding & growth
Typical milestones (a guide, not a test)
Cognitive (learning/thinking)
- Tries to use things the right way, like a phone, cup, or bookCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Stacks at least two small objects, like blocksCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Language & Communication
- Tries to say one or two words besides "mama" or "dada," like "ba" for ball or "da" for dogCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Looks at a familiar object when you name itCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- 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."CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Points to ask for something or to get helpCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Movement & Physical
- Takes a few steps on his ownCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Uses fingers to feed herself some foodCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Social & Emotional
- Copies other children while playing, like taking toys out of a container when another child doesCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Shows you an object she likesCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Claps when excitedCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Hugs stuffed doll or other toyCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Shows you affection (hugs, cuddles, or kisses you)CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Feeding
- Avoid whole nuts, whole grapes, popcorn, hard raw vegetables, chunks of meat/cheese (choking). — modify texture <4 years
- Family foods + continued breastfeeding — Full family diet (appropriately textured). Cow's milk can become a drink after 12 months. Continue breastfeeding to 2 years and beyond.
- Introduce common allergens (peanut, egg) from ~6 months in age-appropriate form — early introduction reduces allergy risk (LEAP/EAT). — INTRODUCE from ~6 months
Play & bonding
Keeping baby safe
- Babyproof: cover outlets, secure cabinets/heavy furniture (anchor to wall), use stair gates., Poison: store medicines, cleaners, and detergents locked and out of reach; keep Poison Control number handy., Choking: avoid whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, hard candy; cut foods small., Water: fence pools; supervise near any water at all times., Car seat: rear-facing until at least age 2 (or seat max).
Sleep
- Ranges are per 24 hours and, for children through preschool, include naps. Individual needs vary. — 11-14
Part of Toddler: 1 to 3 years.
educational reference only; milestones are general guides — discuss any concerns with a pediatrician. Not a diagnostic tool.