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Toddler Milestones: What to Expect

Explore the key physical, cognitive, and social-emotional milestones your toddler will reach in their second and third years, with tips to support their development.

The toddler years (ages 12-36 months) are a time of rapid growth and exciting developmental milestones. Understanding what to expect can help you support your child's progress and celebrate their achievements. This guide provides an overview of the key physical, cognitive, and social-emotional milestones during this transformative stage.

Understanding Toddler Development

Toddlers develop at their own pace, and it's important to remember that each child is unique. The milestones outlined in this guide serve as general guidelines, and your child may reach them a little earlier or later than the average [1].

Physical Milestones

12-18 Months

  • Walks independently
  • Climbs on and off furniture
  • Feeds themselves with fingers
  • Scribbles with crayons or pencils

18-24 Months

  • Runs smoothly
  • Kicks, throws, and catches balls
  • Turns pages in a book
  • Builds towers with blocks

24-36 Months

  • Jumps with both feet
  • Pedals a tricycle
  • Dresses and undresses themselves
  • Copies circles and some letters

Cognitive Milestones

12-18 Months

  • Follows simple instructions
  • Identifies objects by name
  • Starts to understand concepts like "mine" and "theirs"
  • Points to pictures in a book when named

18-24 Months

  • Follows two-step instructions
  • Identifies colors
  • Enjoys pretend play
  • Names familiar objects

24-36 Months

  • Follows three-step instructions
  • Sorts objects by color or shape
  • Asks many questions
  • Remembers parts of a story

Social-Emotional Milestones

12-18 Months

  • Shows affection openly
  • Plays alongside other children
  • Expresses many emotions
  • Responds to simple praise and encouragement

18-24 Months

  • Imitates adults and older children
  • Plays cooperatively with others for short periods
  • Expresses a wide range of emotions
  • Begins to follow rules in group settings

24-36 Months

  • Enjoys playing with other children
  • Separates from parents without major distress
  • Expresses a wide range of emotions and can regulate them
  • Follows rules and routines with little help

For age-appropriate toy recommendations to support your toddler's development, visit our guide to the best toys for toddlers.

Supporting Your Toddler's Development

  1. Provide a safe, nurturing environment: Childproof your home and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and play.
  2. Encourage physical activity: Engage your toddler in active games, outdoor play, and movement-based activities.
  3. Stimulate cognitive development: Read books, sing songs, and introduce simple puzzles and sorting games.
  4. Foster social-emotional skills: Model appropriate behaviors, validate your child's emotions, and facilitate interactions with peers.
  5. Establish routines and consistency: Toddlers thrive on predictable schedules and clear boundaries.

When to Seek Help

While every child develops at their own pace, it's important to monitor your toddler's progress and consult your pediatrician if you notice any significant delays or concerns in the following areas:

  • Unable to support body weight on legs at 1 year of age
  • Not achieving independent walking by 1.5 years old
  • Uneven movement or development at any developmental stage
  • Stalled progress or regression in movement abilities [2]

Remember, the toddler years are a time of incredible growth and exploration. By understanding these milestones and providing a nurturing environment, you can support your child's healthy development and enjoy the many joys of this exciting stage.

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Note: This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician for personalized guidance on your toddler's development and care.

Sources

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Developmental Milestones. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html

  2. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. (n.d.). When to seek help. NHSGGC KIDS. Retrieved from https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/kids/healthcare-professionals/paediatric-physiotherapy/early-years/when-to-seek-help/