18-24 Months: Toddler Talk -- Observation Record

How does the toddler show understanding of words and follow directions?

Toddlers show that they understand by the way they respond, whether or not they do what is asked or indicated. They can provide answers to simple questions, and they are beginning to understand what will happen later in the day, and who has more of something than they do.

The toddler might do one or more of the following:

• Wait until later–stop fussing when told he can have a snack after he comes back from his walk.
• Get the message–go to the refrigerator door when you ask him if he wants some apple juice.
• Connect words and meaning–point to many body parts on himself (nose, eyes, hair), as well as on someone else.
• See the whole picture–make the sounds of the animals that are named or pointed to in the picture book.
• Understand directions–run to the sink when you say, "It's time to wash your hands for lunch."

How does this toddler show he understands you? (Include dates.)

How does the toddler use words and word combinations to communicate?

While toddlers' understanding of language continues to be much greater than their ability to express themselves in words, their spoken vocabulary grows almost daily. Toddlers learn to use words to label, question, and express feelings.

The toddler might do one or more of the following:

• Ask for something–use his own word for juice or water when he wants a drink.
• Make sentences–put several words together, such as, "More juice" or "Go out now?"
• Know the characters–name pictures in the storybook as you read to him.
• Make demands–repeat, "Me go, me go!" and tug at Mom's hand as he watches his brother put on his coat to leave for school.
• Show his preferences–shake his head no and insist, "Cookie, cookie!" when asked if he wants a pretzel or an apple for snack.

What are the ways this toddler uses words to communicate? (Include dates.)