Your Toddler: A Developmental Checklist: 2 To 2 1/2 Years

Remember that all children are individuals and develop at their own pace. This checklist should be used only to get a general sense for where your child is or where he is heading. If you have any concerns about your child's development, consult with your physician.

Physical Development

• Runs without falling
• Jumps up
• Takes off all clothes
• May put on shirt
• May balance on one foot for one second
• Often dislikes being confined; resists going into stroller or being carried
• Appetite decreases, less interest in eating

Intellectual Development

• Follows two-step verbal command
• Begins to distinguish items by number, colour, size, texture

Social And Emotional Development

• Identifies friend by name
• Tests limits: yours, his, the environment's
• Still plays in parallel with other children, not socially interacting with them
• Mimics parental behaviour
• Re-emergence of separation anxiety
• Assertive and independent
• Dawdles or resists being rushed

Language Development

• Names about six body parts
• Uses two-word sentences, with vocabulary of 50 or more words
• Repeats words others say

Dr. Bettye M. Caldwell Ph.D. Professor of Pediatrics in Child Development and Education

Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.