At 15 months old, your child is developing rapidly and reaching important milestones. Here are some things your 15-month-old should be doing:
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Social/Emotional Development: Your child should be showing affection to caregivers with hugs and kisses, showing caregivers things that they like, hugging stuffed dolls or other toys, and copying other children while playing. You can encourage wanted behaviors by showing your child what to do and using positive words or giving hugs and kisses when they do it. You can also limit screen time to video calling with loved ones, as screen time is not recommended for children younger than 2 years of age.
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Communication and Language Skills: Your child should be trying to say 1 or 2 words besides "mama" and "dada," like “ba” for ball, and looking at a familiar object when you name it. You can encourage language development by talking, reading, singing, and playing with your child every day.
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Movement and Physical Development: Your child should be taking a few steps on their own, using their fingers to feed themselves, and stacking at least 2 small things, like blocks. You can support your childs development by spending time playing outdoors, encouraging your child to practice everyday skills like feeding themselves and taking off a hat, and encouraging moving to help your child build muscle strength.
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Cognitive Skills (Thinking and Learning): Your child should be trying to use things the right way, like a phone or book, and stacking at least 2 small things, like blocks. You can encourage cognitive development by reading with your child, telling stories, singing songs, and reciting nursery rhymes.
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Behavior: Your child may be getting into everything and climbing on furniture (and possibly even out of the crib!) . You can help your childs behavior by being sensitive to their personality and moods, establishing routines, and being consistent with your actions and reactions.
Remember that every child progresses at their own pace, and if you have concerns about your childs development, you can talk to your doctor about it.