Toddler developmental timeline
A toddler is a child between the ages of one to three years old. During this period, the child learns a great deal about social roles and develops motor skills.
The toddler developmental timeline shows what an average toddler can do at what age. Times vary greatly from child to child.
If a child is 'behind' in some areas, do not consider it a problem without first consulting with a professional.
Most people are toilet trained while they are toddlers.
| Age |
Physical |
Mental |
Emotional |
| 12 - 15 Months |
- Stand alone well.
- Drink from a cup (poorly).
- Turn pages in a book (a few at a time).
- Play ball by rolling or tossing it.
|
- Use words for parents such as "ma-ma" "da-da"
- Use one or two other words such as "ball", "cracker", or "cookie"
- Can follow a simple command with an associated gesture, such as: bringing a cup to you when you point at it and say "Please bring me the cup".
- Realizes things still exist when they are out of sight, such as a toy block placed into a closed box.
|
- Use gestures or words to convey desires, such as: Pointing a book, raising arms to be picked up, or saying "cup".
- Mimic actions such as covering her eyes while playing peek-a-boo.
|
| 15 - 18 Months |
|
- Knows 2 or 3 words.
- May be able to follow a command without a gesture.
- Stack 2 blocks.
|
|
| 18 - 24 Months |
- Feed herself with a spoon.
- Run.
- Climb into a small chair.
- Walk up steps.
|
- Speaks 6 words.
- Knows a few body parts.
- Stack 3 or 4 blocks.
- Understands pushing buttons can make things happen.
|
- Wants to be independent at times. Will throw a tantrum or possibly say no.
- Mimics social behavior such as hugging a teddy bear or feeding a doll.
|
| 12 - 24 Months |
|
- Sorting toys.
- Search for hidden objects.
- Problem solving through experimentation.
|
- Self recognition.
- Self reference.
- Displays attachment.
- Separation anxiety.
- Knows boys from girls.
- Can play turn taking games.
|
| 2 - 3 Years |
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Even when a toddler can walk he or she is often transported in a buggy (pushchair, push-chair), when he or she is tired, or to increase speed.
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