The short answer
At 13 to 18 months, play can be simple, active, repetitive, and led by your child's interests. Roll a soft ball, put large objects in and out of a box, copy everyday actions, look at pictures, scribble with a chunky crayon, or dance together. Stay close, use age-appropriate toys, and stop when your child loses interest.
In this guide · 12 sections
Keep in mind
- Follow your child's interest and let short, repeated games be enough.
- Use everyday interaction, imitation, movement, and simple pretend play.
- Choose safe, large items and supervise play, especially with crayons and push toys.
What should play look like at 13 to 18 months?
Play at this age is often brief, active, and repetitive. Repeating the same action helps children explore what happens and practise new skills.
Follow your child's attention rather than aiming for a finished task. CDC activity ideas for 18 months include simple pretend play, talking about book pictures, imitation, and safe push-and-pull toys.
Your toddler may watch before joining in or move quickly from one activity to another. Those responses can still be part of play.
How can you play by rolling a ball?
Sit facing each other and slowly roll a soft ball between you. Say, ‘My turn’ and ‘Your turn’ to introduce the idea of taking turns.
Your toddler may roll it back, carry it away, or throw it in another direction. Keep the game relaxed and use a clear space away from breakable objects.
A simple ball game gives you a chance to share attention and movement without complicated rules.
Why do toddlers enjoy putting things in and taking them out?
Offer a sturdy container and a few large, safe objects. Your child can put them in, tip them out, and repeat the activity.
Everyday safe containers or large blocks can make the activity interesting. Stay nearby and choose items too large to swallow.
Avoid beads, tiny pieces, coins, and objects that can break into small parts. Put the activity away if your child begins mouthing unsafe items.
How can you encourage imitation?
Show a simple action such as wiping a table with a cloth, stirring an empty bowl with a large spoon, or pretending to talk on a toy phone.
Demonstrate once, then pause and see what your child does. Copying familiar actions is one way toddlers explore how people use objects.
Your child does not have to imitate on demand. Watching you can be a comfortable way to take part.
Can pretend play start at this age?
Simple pretend actions may begin during this period. You could offer a doll a pretend spoonful of food or cover a toy with a small blanket.
Keep the play to one or two easy actions and follow your child's lead. Add a small idea to what your child is already doing.
CDC suggests simple pretend-play props, such as a doll and blanket, for children around 18 months. The play does not need a storyline.
How can books and pictures become play?
You do not need to read every word. Name a picture your child is looking at, make an animal sound, or ask where a familiar object is.
Use simple words and give your child time to look, point, or make a sound. Shared attention and conversation matter more than finishing a book.
It is normal for a toddler to turn pages quickly, return to a favorite picture, or close the book after a short time.
What are scribbling and cause-and-effect games?
Offer a large sheet of paper and a chunky, age-appropriate crayon for brief scribbling with close supervision. Keep crayons out of your child's mouth.
Large blocks that stack and fall, or a safe toy that responds to a button, can help your child notice what happens after an action.
Choose sturdy toys without detachable small parts and keep the activity on a stable surface where your child cannot fall or reach hazards.
How can you make movement play safer?
Walking together, dancing to music, or moving around a low cushion can make movement enjoyable. Choose a clear, level area.
If you use a push toy, check that it is stable and intended for your child's age. Stay close, especially while your child is learning to walk.
Keep play away from stairs, sharp corners, hot surfaces, and furniture that could tip. Follow the toy maker's instructions.
What can you try today?
Offer two or three safe choices, such as a soft ball, a large box, and a few big blocks. Notice which one your child reaches for.
Show one action, then pause and let your toddler explore in their own way. Use a few simple words to describe what is happening.
End the activity when your child loses interest. Short, enjoyable play is enough; you do not need to keep your child engaged for a set time.
Put away small or damaged toys before play and stay close enough to help.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Keep small parts, choking hazards, sharp objects, and unsafe household items out of play.
- Talk with your child's clinician if your child loses a skill or you are concerned about development.
Sources used for this guide
- www.cdc.gov — regional guidance
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Positive Parenting Tips: Toddlers (1–2 years old)
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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