What should a 16.5 month old understand (instruction-wise?) Worried.

[gobblygook]

I read posts where DC are following all manner of instructions at 16 months - going and fetching, doing things for themselves etc.

My DS definitely understands stuff - but I can't really tell how much. He'll understand go and get ball, pass me a bit of your biscuit or do you want a banana, do you want teddy, milk etc etc. I suppose in day to day terms, I assume he understands what he needs to - and he's very communicative (non-verbally).

But some of the posts have worried me.

Don't worry about it. Seriously. 16.5 is a baby and some will be able to do things and some won't.

If he's still not doing things at 2+, then worry.

NB: I am not a doctor.

Yes as Tee says they all develop at different speeds; it's like walking ;DD1 was talking clearly at 18months but not walking! But it's still normal (I speak as a mum of 3 and minder\nanny to 8 (not all at the same time!) Nursery and infant teacher!

dd is 22 months and it's only been over the last few months that it has become obvious that she understands a lot of what is said. That is mainly because she will repeat words days after they were said etc. Following instructions is very hit and miss.. you can almost see the cogs going round as she decides whether to do what is asked! Sometimes she will say NO! and other times say 'alright mama'... but then either do what is asked or kind of do her own version of it!

my dd is the 16mths and she is the same can understand stuff like go get the ball, its time for bed (she will go the bottom of the stairs) she knows 'lamby' her fave cuddly toy and her brothers names etc. she isnt talking much, but communicates well in other ways!

your ds sounds normal to me, they all vary, my 5 have all been very different but they all get their eventually, do you have any concerns over his hearing? if so then that is worth checking out, but from the little you say he sounds fine to me! :)

They do all develop at different paces, and they mostly all catch up, that's completely true and will probably be true of your ds

But...if you're feeling worried, listen to that, dont feel guilty and ask for some advice from your hv or someone, and if you don't feel satisfied, keep asking, honestly.