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When do toddlers follow directions?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists following directions with a gesture and words by 15 months, one-step directions without gestures by 18 months, and two-step instructions, like “Put the toy down and close the door,” by 30 months. Most children (75% or more) do these by those ages. If you're worried, talk with your pediatrician.

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 monthsFollows directions given with both a gesture and words. For example, he gives you a toy when you hold out your hand and say, “Give me the toy.”Your toddler at 15 months
18 monthsFollows one-step directions without any gestures, like giving you the toy when you say, “Give it to me.”Your toddler at 18 months
30 monthsFollows two-step instructions like “Put the toy down and close the door.”Your toddler at 30 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (15 months, 18 months, 30 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

Handing you the toy when you hold out your hand, then bringing a shoe when you ask, then two steps in a row.

What helps

  • Hold out your hand and say "Give me the cup, please." Then swap roles.
  • Make simple requests a game: "Bring me the teddy!"
  • When they're ready, add a second step: "Get your shoes and sit on the step."

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your child 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