18-Month-Old Toddler: Your Little Learner
How your 18-month-old toddler learns through play—and how to encourage it.

Your Little Learner
The easiest way to help your 18-month-old build skills like paying attention and remembering instructions? Encourage playtime. And you don’t have to get fancy: exploring everyday objects and the world around them is often more than enough to keep them busy and learning. So in that spirit, we’ve rounded up our 10 favorite DIY activities for fun at home using items you’re very likely to have around the house.
Did You Know?
According to scientific research, watching TV may be beneficial for your kids, particularly if you sit with them and ask questions about what’s happening on the screen. And if you’re going to join the viewing party, we think you should tune into something enjoyable, like one of these 13 parent- and parenting-expert-approved shows.
Montessori Toys
What makes a toy Montessori-friendly? It should be made from natural materials, err on the side of simplicity (no batteries needed), focus on a single skill, and be realistic and purpose-driven.
Finance Fun
In addition to learning about monetary gifts that set up children for their financial future, check out these toys that teach them about coins, bills, spending, saving and the stock market.
Parenting Toolkit: Independent Play 101
Try this: Dr. Becky, the parent whisperer behind Good Inside, discusses how to encourage your child to play alone (and feel less guilty about not joining in). Then check out our favorite toys for independent play.