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Year 1 Milestones and Beyond

Year 1 Milestones and Beyond

Your toddler is growing and surprising you at every stage. But they do so at their own pace. So, don’t sweat the small stuff. Here are some milestones to note in the first two years.

Medically reviewed by a board-certified pediatrician

Year 1 milestones

  • Looks for and is able to find where a sound comes from
  • Responds to their name when you call it
  • Waves goodbye
  • Looks where you point when you say, "Look at the puppy"
  • Babbles with intonation (voice rises and falls as if speaking in sentences)
  • Takes turns "talking" with you; listens and pays attention when you speak and then resumes babbling when you stop
  • Says “Dada” or “Mama”
  • Says at least one word
  • Points to out-of-reach items they want; makes sounds while pointing

Years 1 and 2 milestones

  • Follows simple commands, first when the adult speaks and gestures, and then later with words alone
  • Retrieves objects from another room when asked
  • Points to a few body parts when asked
  • Points to interesting objects or events to get you to look at them
  • Brings things to you to show you
  • Points to objects so you’ll name them
  • Can name some common objects when asked
  • Enjoys pretending (for example, pretend cooking); uses gestures and words with you or with a favorite stuffed animal
  • Learns about one new word a week between 1 and 2 years old

Year 2 milestones

  • Points to many body parts and common objects on command
  • Points to some pictures in books
  • Follows one-step commands without a gesture, such as, "Put your cup on the table"
  • Able to say 50 to 100 words
  • Says several two-word sentences and phrases, "Daddy go," "Doll mine," and "All gone"
  • Half of their babbles are understood by other kids or adults

If you have any questions about your baby's development with these year 1 and year 2 milestones, always ask your pediatrician. Early intervention can make a significant difference. 

I’d say... it will all turn out fine. Loving your baby is the most important thing. – Enfamil® mom

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