Small Steps Online:
15-18 Months
How This Course Helps Your Baby Thrive
Start Small Steps today and give your baby the best start, one step at a time.
#Assess | #Practice | #Achieve
Module Overview
Gross Motor Skills
Your toddler is gaining confidence in moving around! Gross motor skills include walking independently, climbing onto low furniture, squatting to play, and beginning to run or pull toys while walking. Movement becomes more purposeful and playful.
Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor development at this stage includes stacking blocks, turning pages one at a time, using a spoon with help, and placing shapes into matching holes. Your child is learning to coordinate their hands and fingers with more control.
Communication Skills
Your toddler is starting to use more words or signs and may begin combining sounds or words meaningfully. Communication also includes copying words you say, naming familiar people or objects, and using gestures to express needs and wants.
Receptive Language
Receptive language continues to grow as your child follows simple instructions like “give it to me” or “come here.” They may also point to familiar items when named and respond to short questions with gestures, actions, or simple words.
Personal & Social Skills
Your child is developing more independence and awareness of others. They may show preferences, seek comfort from caregivers, imitate daily tasks like sweeping or brushing hair, and begin playing near other children—even if not directly with them yet.
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
Meet the #DownTeam
Ashley May
In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley opened her own private practice focused exclusively on paediatric physiotherapy, where she supports children with a wide range of gross motor challenges. Her commitment to learning and advancing the field continued with the completion of a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Witwatersrand. Her research explored the relationship between physical activity and gross motor development in children aged 4–6 living in Cape Town.
Ashley is certified in both MAES therapy and General Movements Assessment, and she is currently completing the SANDTA Neurodevelopmental Therapy Course. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Ashley treasures her role as a mother to a lively toddler—a journey that, she says, has taught her more than any degree ever could. This lived experience deepens her empathy and commitment to helping children and families thrive.
Ashley May
@ashleymay_physio
Nikita Oosthuizen
With a background in both the private and non-profit sectors, she spent three years working with the United Nations in communications and fundraising—collaborating closely with beneficiaries, donors, and high-profile individuals. She was also part of a team leading a campaign to shift societal narratives around people who are different.
Passionate about helping others and creating inclusive spaces, she believes every person has a unique purpose that flourishes with the right guidance and support.
Today, she brings that vision to life in her role as Communications & Program Manager at Small Steps Online and The September Institute.
Nikita Oosthuizen
