Toddler playing with chalk.

Embarking on the captivating journey of a 1-year-old's development, from 12 to 24 months, is a delightful adventure marked by exploration and growth. This developmental checklist is meticulously crafted to navigate you through the milestones and potential considerations in your child's formative months.

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Serving as the cornerstone of the ABCJesusLovesMe 1 Year Curriculum, this checklist acts as a roadmap, offering insights into a child's typical development during this pivotal stage. Whether you're a teacher or a parent, this comprehensive overview delves into key developmental areas. Make the most of this tool, and if any questions arise, seek professional guidance for a deeper understanding of the child's unique developmental journey.

Scroll down for a free printable checklist.

 

Physical Development for a 1-year-old

  • walks by 18 months
  • runs
  • stops, squats, then stands
  • sits on small stool or chair
  • climbs stairs while holding on
  • dances to music
  • plays with push and pull toys
  • throws overhand
  • kicks a ball

Play of a 1-year-old

  • play games like pat-a-cake
  • bangs objects together
  • parallel play
  • puts 2-3 piece puzzles together
  • increasing make-believe play
  • plays with more than one toy at a time
  • places items in and out of container
  • look for items hid, like toy under a blanket
  • hands book to adult when wants to hear a story

Social/Emotional Development of a 1-year-old

  • cries when parent leaves
  • shy around strangers
  • has favorite toys
  • copies movement and gestures
  • follows simple directions
  • recognizes own face in mirror
  • can point to body parts when asked
  • understanding cause-and-effect
  • points for help
  • begins to say “no” to commands or needs
  • may have temper tantrums
  • blanket or stuffed animal for security object
  • may be clinging to parents
  • notices where others are hurt or upset

Academic Learning of a 1-year-old

  • looks at correct object when names
  • scribbles, imitate drawing line or circle
  • loves looking at books with adult
  • turns pages of board books

Personal Care Development of a 1-year-old

  • drink from cups without lid, while held
  • pick up items between thumb and pointer finger
  • holds out arm or leg to help get dressed
  • eats greater variety of foods
  • eating on own
  • self feeds with spoon
  • helps with dressing and undressing

Language Development of a 1-year-old

  • wave “bye-bye”
  • call parent “mama” or “dada”
  • understand “no”
  • repeats sounds to get attention
  • babbles like speech
  • responds to simple requests given
  • tries to repeat words
  • imitates animal sounds
  • simple phrases or 2-word sentences
  • 100 or more words by 2 years
  • responds to name

Be Watchful for...

  • isn’t crawling
  • won’t search for hidden objects
  • can’t stand without support
  • doesn’t point
  • doesn’t say simple words
  • loses skills once had

1 Year Development Checklist


FREE 1 Year Development Checklist

Grab your free 1-Year Development Checklist now! Stay proactive in monitoring your child's development. 

Always consult with a professional with any concerns.


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References

This article information is pulled from the following sources as well as many years of training. This information is provided as a guide only.  Because every child is different consult your pediatrician as this list is a generalization.

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