Red flags in Development : 1-2 years

SNIPPETSDEVELOPMENTRED FLAGS

Dr Praful Gowda

2 min read

Between 1 and 2 years, toddlers begin to walk, talk, and explore with growing independence. This is when parents typically hear those first words and see their child express emotions, follow simple instructions, and interact more socially.

But what if your child doesn’t speak much, doesn’t point to things, or prefers playing alone? These may be early signs of developmental delay.

As a pediatrician, I’ve seen how early detection—especially in the second year—can change a child’s future.

This article will help you recognize key red flags between 12–24 months, understand what they might mean, and know what to do next.

What to Expect by 2 Years

Here are typical milestones most children reach by their second birthday. Keep in mind some variation is normal—but significant delays or absence of these skills should be evaluated.

Motor

  • Walks independently by 15–16 months

  • Climbs onto furniture

  • Begins to run and squat

  • Builds tower of 2–4 blocks

  • Uses hands for purposeful play (scribbling, turning pages)

Language

  • Says 10–50 words by 18 months

  • Combines 2 words by 24 months (“more milk”, “go out”)

  • Understands simple instructions (“come here”, “give me the ball”)

  • Points to body parts when asked

Social & Emotional

  • Points to show interest (joint attention)

  • Brings objects to share with parent

  • Imitates simple actions

  • Begins parallel play

  • Shows stranger anxiety and preference for known people

Cognitive

  • Follows 1-step and 2-step commands

  • Looks for hidden toys

  • Explores objects by shaking, banging, dropping

  • Begins pretend play (feeding a doll, talking on a toy phone)

Red Flags: Signs That Warrant Concern

Watch for these signs between 12–24 months:

By 15 Months:

  • Doesn’t point to things or show gestures (like waving)

  • Doesn’t say at least 1–3 meaningful words

  • Doesn’t look when name is called

  • Doesn’t stand with support

By 18 Months:

  • Doesn’t walk independently

  • Doesn’t use at least 6–10 words

  • Doesn’t follow simple instructions

  • Doesn’t make eye contact

  • Doesn’t point to objects of interest

  • Doesn’t play meaningfully with toys

By 24 Months:

  • Doesn’t speak in two-word phrases

  • Has fewer than 50 words

  • Doesn’t imitate actions or words

  • Doesn’t respond to questions

  • Doesn’t notice or care when a parent leaves or returns

  • Doesn’t engage in simple pretend play

If you notice any of these, especially more than one, consult your pediatrician without waiting.

What Should Parents Do?

  • Don’t delay—if your toddler isn’t talking or engaging, it’s best to act early.

  • Request a developmental screening like ASQ or M-CHAT.

  • Ask for referrals to speech therapy, occupational therapy, or early intervention programs.

  • Engage your child with talking, reading, and play every day.

What Could These Signs Mean?

Some common causes of developmental delay at this stage include:

  • Speech delay or language disorder

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (many early signs show up now)

  • Hearing loss (especially after frequent ear infections)

  • Global Developmental Delay

  • Neglect or lack of stimulation

In some cases, no clear diagnosis is made—but your child still benefits from support and therapy.

What’s the Next Step?

  1. Track skills monthly using a milestone chart

  2. Speak up early if delays are noticed

  3. Follow up on referrals promptly

  4. Stay consistent with home-based interaction and play

Free Download

Milestone Checklist for 1–2 Years
Speech & Language Red Flag Poster (Printable)

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