Toddler Developmental Milestones

Social and Emotional:

• Imitates behaviors of others, especially adults and older children.

• More aware of himself/herself as separate from others. 

• More excited about company of other children. 

• Demonstrates increasing independence. 

• Begins to show defiant behavior. 

• Separation anxiety increases toward mid-year then fades. 

• Puts away toys on request. 

• Asks for assistance with personal needs. (Fastening clothes)

• Begins to share toys with other children.  

Cognitive:

• Finds objects when hidden under two or three covers. 

• Begins to sort by shapes and colors.

• Begins to identify colors.

• Begins make-believe play. 

• Chooses one object from a group of 5 upon verbal request. 

• Understands size concepts (big and little).

Language:

• Points to object or picture when it’s named for him/her.

• Recognizes names of familiar people. 

• Points to familiar objects when name is given. 

• Points to 10 body parts.

• Says several words (20+)

• Uses simple phrases.

• Uses 2-4 word sentences.

• Follows simple instructions.

• Repeats words overheard in conversation.

• Refers to self by name.

• Understands location phrases (under the chair, etc.)

• Uses words more often than gestures to communicate. 

Movement: 

• Pulls toys behind while walking.

• Carries large toy or several toys while walking.

• Begins to run.

• Stands on tip toes.

• Jumps with both feet.

• Kicks a ball.

• Climbs onto and down from furniture unassisted.

• Walks up and down stairs holding on to support. 

Fine Motor:

• Builds tower of 4 or more blocks.

• Uses one hand more often than others. 

• Pretends to pour from container.

• Pushes a stroller or shopping cart.

• Flies a toy airplane.

• Wipes hands and face.

• Slaps a palm in response to “give me five.”

• Pretends to talk on telephone.