Carrying a security blanket. By 12 months, many babies pledge allegiance to a blankie or stuffed toy -- one of the clearest signs of independence, and something to soothe and comfort her, day and night.

Scribbling. If you show your 15-month-old how to color and she presses hard enough to copy your movements, it's one of the earliest steps toward your child's creative development, says Tanya Remer Altmann, M.D., author of Mommy Calls.

Saying "Woof." Between 12 and 15 months, your child will be able to see a dog -- or a picture of one -- and bark, showing she connects a sound with a sight and understands what it represents. "Every dog looks different, which is confusing. So repeat the animal's name and its sound. It helps them differentiate," says Dr. Altmann.

Following instructions. Between 12 and 18 months, your child should start to follow simple orders. "Parents are always concerned that their baby isn't talking," says Dr. Altmann. "What's much more important is that they are understanding what you're saying."

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