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When do babies point?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Points to ask for something or to get help” by 15 months, and “Points to show you something interesting” by 18 months. Most children (75% or more) do these by those ages, and many point sooner. If your child isn't pointing by 15 months, the CDC says talk with your child's doctor.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
15 monthsPoints to ask for something or to get helpYour toddler at 15 months
18 monthsPoints to show you something interestingYour toddler at 18 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (15 months, 18 months), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 15 months” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 15 months” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

Pointing at the cup they want, then pointing at a bird or a plane just so you'll look too.

What helps

  • Point and name things yourself: "Look! A bird."
  • When your child points, go and look, and name it.
  • Read a picture book and ask "Where's the cat?" Wait for a point.

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your baby isn't doing this by 15 months, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources