- At 15 months old, toddlers typically transition to independent walking and begin mimicking adult actions, while their communication expands to include simple words and hand gestures.
- Most 15 month-old toddlers are ready for family meals consisting of five daily feedings, and they require approximately 44 ounces of total fluid to support their high activity levels.
- Maintaining a regular immunization schedule is vital for protection against core diseases, alongside establishing a consistent sleep routine of about 12 to 13 total hours per day.
At 15 months, your baby is likely becoming much more active and curious about the world around them. They usually enjoy walking independently and start showing a greater interest in playing with toys and interacting with other children.
Communication is also reaching new heights as your little one begins to better understand the language used around them. They should recognize their own name when called and may even have a small vocabulary of simple, recognizable words.
Healthy development depends on a balanced diet and plenty of hydration to support their growing body. While every child hits these marks at their own pace, checking in with a pediatrician ensures your baby is on the right track.
Healthy growth
The following table outlines the healthy weight and growth ranges for a 15 month old according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards. These figures include height, head circumference, and typical monthly weight gain for both boys and girls:
If your child’s measurements fall outside these ranges, it is best to consult your pediatrician to evaluate their specific growth pattern.
Baby development
At 15 months, babies are natural explorers who often learn by mimicking the actions of the adults and older children they see. They are typically very active, preferring to spend their time walking through the house and engaging with toys or other playmates.
Cognitively, your baby can now understand most simple instructions and will respond to their name. You may hear them say basic words like "mama," "papa," or "dada," and they often use gestures like waving "bye bye" or shaking their head "no" to communicate.
You can encourage their development by talking to them throughout the day, whether during bath time, meals, or play. Fun activities like reading books together, dancing to music, and singing songs are excellent ways to boost their learning and social skills.
Vaccination schedule
Based on current 2026 CDC guidelines and standard pediatric recommendations, a 15 month old child typically requires several important immunizations to stay protected:
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DTaP vaccine: The 4th dose of this vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (whooping cough).
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Hib vaccine: A booster dose for Haemophilus influenzae type b, which prevents serious infections like meningitis and pneumonia.
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PCV15 or PCV20: A booster for the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to protect against various bacterial infections.
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MMR and Varicella: If not already received at 12 months, the first doses for Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Chickenpox are typically completed by this age.
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IPV vaccine: A dose of the inactivated poliovirus vaccine to maintain immunity against polio.
Note that some vaccines previously recommended for all children, such as those for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Influenza, may now involve shared clinical decision making with your doctor depending on your child's specific risk factors.
Diet guidance
By 15 months, most babies are ready to eat the same healthy meals as the rest of the family. A typical daily schedule includes five meals: three main meals and two healthy snacks, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
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Breakfast: Half a portion of fresh fruit served with breast milk, about 7 ounces (200 ml) of whole cow's milk, or infant formula.
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Afternoon snack: One full portion of fresh fruit with breast milk, 7 ounces of whole cow's milk, or formula.
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Lunch or dinner example: A balanced plate with 1 tablespoon of grains (like rice or pasta) or tubers (like sweet potatoes); 2 tablespoons of vegetables (like spinach or tomatoes); 1 tablespoon of legumes (like beans); and 1 tablespoon of protein (like meat, fish, or eggs).
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Bedtime/Evening snack: Breast milk, 7 ounces of whole cow's milk, or infant formula.
Parents should aim for about 20 ounces (600 ml) of milk per day, preferably as a fortified infant formula or whole milk, but ensure it does not replace solid meals. Dairy products like yogurt and cheese are also great for calcium, alongside iron rich meats and vitamin packed greens.
It is important to avoid processed foods such as hot dogs, sodas, and sugary snacks, as these are high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Additionally, try not to add extra salt or sugar to your baby's food, as this helps them develop a preference for healthy flavors and reduces the risk of future health issues like obesity.
Water intake
A 15 month old needs approximately 44 ounces (1300 ml) of total fluid per day. This total includes plain water, the water found in breast milk or formula, and the liquid content in healthy soups or natural juices.
Offer filtered or boiled water in a sippy cup or open cup throughout the day. Providing water between meals helps keep them hydrated without filling them up too much before they eat their solids.
Sleep schedule
At this age, babies usually sleep between 9 and 10 hours at night. They may still require two daytime naps, totaling about 3 hours of rest during the day.
This stage is a great time to help your child learn to sleep independently, which builds their confidence and autonomy. Feeling safe and secure in their own crib or bed is a significant developmental milestone for their emotional growth.
If your baby struggles to fall asleep, try creating a calming environment by dimming the lights and keeping the house quiet. Providing a familiar comfort object, like a favorite stuffed animal, can also help them feel more at ease as they drift off.
Games and activities
Play is the primary way toddlers learn about their world, helping them build communication skills, creativity, and self confidence. Simple activities are often the most rewarding for their physical and mental well being.
Taking your baby to a local park or playground is a wonderful way to let them explore. Allowing them to walk on different surfaces like grass or sand and letting them observe nature can be very stimulating for their senses.
You can also engage them with interactive songs that teach them about their bodies or animal sounds. Classics like "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" are perfect for helping them learn new words while staying active and having fun.