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 social development of an 18-month-old

At eighteen months, the toddler is just moving into what is commonly referred to as "the terrible twos." At this time in social development, the child is beginning to break away from the close contact s/he once had with primary caregivers. This is called differentiation and this "breaking away" is a critical part of social development that will influence the child's behavior throughout life. Expect lots of temper tantrums and what I call "touch backs." The child will want to be independent enough to explore the world, but will still need frequent "touch backs" with the primary caregivers in order to feel secure.

Social-emotional milestones for this age include:

• Attempting to talk or repeat words.
• Understanding some new words.
• Responding to simple questions with "yes" and "no."
• Walking alone (or with very little help).
• Exhibiting a variety of emotions: anger, delight, fear.
• Showing interest in pictures.
• Recognizing self in mirror.
• Attempting self-feeding: holding own cup to mouth and drink.

Adapted from: Allen, K. E. & Marotz, I. (1989). Developmental profiles: Birth to six. Delmar Publishers Inc.
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             The best way to keep children home is to make the home atmosphere pleasant -- and let the air out of the tires. - Dorothy Parker

Revised: 10/11/2007.