10 Toddler Milestones Every Parent Should Know

It happens to most parents. Sometimes, it’s at the park. Maybe it’s in the carpool lane or even during a holiday or other family gathering. It’s that nagging question … why isn’t my kid doing that?

It’s hard not to compare. There’s the little girl who speaks in full sentences, or the little boy who climbs to the top of the jungle gym at age two. These gifted children can make some parents feel like their own children are behind in some developmental areas. 

What should your child be doing at their age, and when should you get them evaluated? Here’s a list of 10 milestones you should be on the lookout for in your toddler.

By age two:

  • Walk up and down steps while holding your hand

  • Plays with a toy for about four minutes

  • Says at least 50 words and some simple phrases, like “more please”

  • Uses gestures like waving and pointing

  • Starts doing some pretend play

By age three:

  • Asks wh- questions, including “why”

  • Takes turns with others and doesn’t get too frustrated while waiting

  • Copies a circle when someone draws one

  • Speaks in sentences, including the use of “I”

  • Rides a tricycle or riding toy

While looking over this list, you may notice a few things your child hasn’t mastered yet. That’s okay! There’s a free program in Pennsylvania that can help.

Early Intervention is for children from birth to three years old and is free to those who qualify. No need for private insurance or income requirement. Your child can be evaluated to determine which areas of development are affected. 

Pediatric Therapy Professionals (PTP) is an Early Intervention agency in nine counties in Western PA, providing services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and more. Since 2001, PTP has helped over 21,000 children reach their fullest potential. 

Each session through Early Intervention is done in the family’s home or wherever the child is, including child care centers, with a babysitter, or in the community. The emphasis is on home-based coaching and family or caregiver involvement. Every family is different, which allows PTP to tailor services to fit the child’s needs and educate parents and caregivers through resources and strategies that can easily be incorporated into the routine. 

If you have concerns about your child’s development, check out the PTP website at www.pedtp.com to contact your county for a free evaluation.