Your Child at 15 Months
Explore this age stage using information from approved sources and TalkPebble parent guidance.
About this age
This page brings together CDC developmental milestone information for around 15 months and TalkPebble ideas for everyday connection.
Developmental areas
Important: TalkPebble's milestone information is for educational and developmental monitoring purposes. It is not a diagnostic tool and does not replace standardized developmental screening or professional evaluation.
CDC-derived milestones
Social / Emotional
- Copies other children while playing, like taking toys out of a container when another child does
- Shows you an object they like
- Claps when excited
- Hugs stuffed doll or other toy
- Shows you affection (hugs, cuddles, or kisses you)
Language / Communication
- Tries to say one or two words besides “mama” or “dada,” like “ba” for ball or “da” for dog
- Looks at a familiar object when you name it
- Follows directions given with both a gesture and words. For example, gives you a toy when you hold out your hand and say, “Give me the toy.”
- Points to ask for something or to get help
Cognitive
- Tries to use things the right way, like a phone, cup, or book
- Stacks at least two small objects, like blocks
Movement / Physical Development
- Takes a few steps on their own
- Uses fingers to feed themself some food
AYJNISHD reference
Listening & Speech
Listening and speech development builds over time. These observations from AYJNISHD describe examples of auditory responses and speech and language development across early childhood.
AYJNISHD reference: 9 to 18 months
Auditory Response
- Looks up when called
- Understands words such as “no”
- Responds to simple commands
Speech & Language Development
- Uses their voice to get attention
- First words may be heard during this period
- Imitates some sounds made by others
- Gradually builds a vocabulary of meaningful words by 18 months
Have concerns about listening or speech?
If you notice a persistent concern about your child's response to sounds or speech and language development, consider discussing it with a qualified healthcare or communication professional.
Explore TalkPebble support resourcesReference source
Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan)
Government of India
Auditory & Speech Milestones
View sourceTalkPebble guidance
Support for everyday moments
TalkPebble-created ideas for turning everyday moments into opportunities to connect.
What this can look like
- Your child may point to ask for a snack, look at the cup when you name it, or try a short word for something familiar.
Try it at home
- Name the object your child points to, wait a moment, then respond.
- Invite your child to help with a simple routine, such as putting socks in a basket.
What to say
- “Cup — you found the cup.”
- “You want help? I can help.”
- “Socks in!”
What to notice
- Points to ask or get help
- Looks at a named object
- Tries a new sound or word
- Shows you a favorite object
Why it helps
Everyday routines create repeated chances to connect an object, action, gesture, and word.
Try a TalkPebble activity
- Snack Choices
Offer two options and hold them up so your child can see both. Pause, then respond warmly to whatever way they let you know — a look, a point, a sound or a word.
- Bubble Play
Blow a few bubbles, then hold the wand still and wait. Bubbles create a natural reason for your child to ask for “more” again and again.
- Reading Together
Follow your child’s lead instead of every word on the page. Talk about what they point at, and let them turn the pages at their own pace.
Keep practicing with TalkPebble
Use simple everyday activities to build on the moments you are already sharing.
Have concerns about your child's development?
You know your child best. If you have concerns about your child's development, talk with your child's healthcare professional and ask about developmental screening.
Explore TalkPebble support resourcesSource
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Learn the Signs. Act Early.
Milestones by 15 Months
View sourceDevelopmental milestone information is based on the CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program. TalkPebble is not affiliated with or endorsed by the CDC.