What Most Children Do by 2 Years
Social/Emotional Milestones
- Notices when others are hurt or upset, like pausing or looking sad when someone is crying
- Looks at your face to see how to react in a new situation
Language/Communication Milestones
- Points to things in a book when you ask, like "Where is the bear?"
- Says at least two words together, like "More milk."
- Points to at least two body parts when you ask him to show you
- Uses more gestures than just waving and pointing, like blowing a kiss or nodding yes
Cognitive Milestones
- Holds something in one hand while using the other hand; for example, holding a container and taking the lid off
- Tries to use switches, knobs, or buttons on a toy
- Plays with more than one toy at the same time, like putting toy food on a toy plate
Movement/Physical Development
- Kicks a ball
- Runs
- Walks (not climbs) up a few stairs with or without help
- Eats with a spoon
It's time for developmental screening!
At 2 years, your child is due for an autism screening, as recommended for all children by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Ask the doctor about your child's developmental screening.
Help Your Child Learn and Grow
As your child's first teacher, you can help his or her learning and brain development. Try these simple tips and activities in a safe way. Talk with your child's doctor and teachers if you have questions or for more ideas on how to help your child's development.
Help your child learn how words sound, even if he can't say them clearly yet. For example, if your child says, "or nana," say "You want more banana."
Watch your child closely during playdates. Children this age play next to each other, but do not know how to share and solve problems. Show your child how to deal with conflicts by helping her share, take turns, and use words when possible.
Have your child help you get ready for mealtime, by letting him carry things to the table, such as plastic cups or napkins. Thank your child for helping.
Give your child balls to kick, roll, and throw.
Give toys that teach your child how to make things work and how to solve problems. For example, give her toys where she can push a button and something happens.
Let your child play dress up with grown-up clothes, such as shoes, hats, and shirts. This helps him begin to pretend play.
Allow your child to eat as much or as little as she wants at each meal. Toddlers don't always eat the same amount or type of food each day. Your job is to offer her healthy foods and it's your child's job to decide if and how much she needs to eat.
Have steady routines for sleeping and feeding. Create a calm, quiet bedtime for your child. Put on his pajamas, brush his teeth, and read 1 or 2 books to him. Children this age need 11 to 14 hours of sleep a day (including naps). Consistent sleep times make it easier.
Ask your child's doctor and/or teachers about toilet training to know if your child is ready to start. Most children are not able to toilet train until 2 to 3 years old. Starting too early can cause stress and setbacks, which can cause training to take longer.
Use positive words when your child is being a good helper. Let him help with simple chores, such as putting toys or laundry in a basket.
Play with your child outside, by playing "ready, set, go." For example, pull your child back in a swing. Say "Ready, set….", then wait and say "Go" when you push the swing.
Let your child create simple art projects with you. Give your child crayons or put some finger paint on paper and let her explore by spreading it around and making dots. Hang it on the wall or refrigerator so your child can see it.
When to Be Concerned
You know your child best. Don't wait.
If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills they once had, or you have other concerns, act early.
Talk with your child's doctor:
- Share your concerns
- Ask about developmental screening
- Get a referral to a specialist if needed
Contact Early Intervention Services:
If you have concerns about your child's development, contact your local early intervention program for evaluation and support services.
If you or the doctor are still concerned:
- Ask for a referral to a specialist who can evaluate your child more thoroughly.
Download Your 2-Year Milestone Checklist
Free Milestone Checklist
Download our comprehensive 2-year milestone checklist to track your child's development. Take it with you to doctor visits and use it to monitor progress at home.
No email required • Instant download • Based on WHO & CDC standards
Other Important Things to Share with the Doctor
Questions to Discuss:
- What are some things you and your child do together?
- What are some things your child likes to do?
- Is there anything your child does or does not do that concerns you?
- Has your child lost any skills they once had?
- Does your child have any special healthcare needs or were they born prematurely?
Safety Reminders:
- Supervise outdoor play and physical activities
- Ensure safe play environments
- Monitor eating habits and food safety
- Watch for signs of developmental concerns