Uses objects correctly
Typical Timing & Development Window
Visual Timeline & Milestone Benchmarks
What these numbers mean
The average age babies first begin showing early signs of this skill. Before this, it's simply too early — there's nothing to worry about.
The midpoint age: half of babies have reached this milestone by here, half a little later. It's a typical target, not a deadline.
How spread out the timing is. About two-thirds of babies achieve it within one standard deviation of the median (the shaded band, wk 56–64). Wide bands mean a normal range of variation.
A gentle check-in point. If your baby hasn't shown this by around here, it can be worth mentioning to your pediatrician — most often it's still perfectly fine, just later.
About this milestone
The toddler uses everyday items (like a toy phone, cup, or book) in their correct, intended way. This represents a transition from random exploration to functional, symbolic play. It shows they are observing and remembering how adults use objects in daily life.
- 1. Keep real, safe household items (like clean plastic cups, combs, or wooden spoons) available for them to play with.
- 2. Model using the items correctly during play, such as placing a toy phone to your ear and saying 'Hello!'.
- 3. Provide simple dress-up items like soft hats or large shoes, encouraging them to copy your actions.
- 4. Read books about daily routines, pointing to pictures of characters brushing their teeth or eating with a spoon.
- 1. Avoid offering toys with small removable parts that could be swallowed or choked on.