Toddler Development

The toddler years are often described as “the terrible twos.” However, it need not be so terrible for parents if they have an understanding of normal developmental milestones and the reason for typical behaviors of temper tantrums, negativism, intense exploration and curiosity. The following are general guidelines only:

13-15 Months

If your baby has not already done so, he will begin walking without help. His walking will at first be uncoordinated, with the feet far apart for balance. Your baby can stack a few blocks and loves to throw things. He may be constantly jabbering away and might say four or five words, while he understands simple commands. He is beginning to imitate parents such as cleaning and mowing and is showing emotions such as jealousy, affection or temper tantrums.

16-18 Months

Your toddler’s balance and coordination when walking improves. He can walk up stairs with one hand held. She likes to walk while pushing or pulling a toy. She can scribble and make marks on paper, stack three or four blocks and use a spoon independently. Your toddler may say five to ten words and can point to two three body parts.

19-21 Months

Your child walks, climbs, pushes, pulls and pounds. He can go up and down steps alone with a hand on a rail and runs and kicks a ball although clumsy at this age. Your child may be able to say his first name and can follow one or two simple directions. Your child seems to be into everything as he learns about the world and wants to be even more independent.

22-24 Months

Your child becomes expert at walking; running improves. She cuts her last baby teeth. She handles a spoon and fork well and likes to draw on paper. Your toddler may use up to 300 words and may begin to use two-to-three word sentences.

2-3 Years

Your toddler can jump and stand on one foot for a second. By three years, he can ride a tricycle, build a tower of eight blocks and feed himself. He can give first and name, use three-word sentences and name one color. He can help put toys away, dress himself and may become toilet trained.