By 18 months, which motor skill is typical?

• A. Walks independently; runs; builds a short block tower (2–3 blocks)
• B. Sits quietly in one place
• C. Climbs stairs with assistance
• D. Writes with a crayon

Answer: (A)

At around 18 months, children are becoming more mobile and capable. A typical milestone is walking independently and starting to run, along with developing fine motor coordination such as stacking a small tower of blocks—about 2 to 3 blocks. This combination shows both advancing gross motor skills (moving around on feet) and early fine motor skills (manipulating small objects).

Climbing stairs with assistance tends to appear a bit later as balance and leg strength improve, usually closer to 2 years. Sitting quietly in one place isn’t the defining motor achievement at this age, since toddlers are typically active and exploring. Writing with a crayon is a preschool skill that develops around 3 to 4 years.