Introduction

When your child reaches the age of two, they are undergoing significant growth and development. This stage is characterized by rapid advancements in their physical abilities, cognitive skills, language development, and social-emotional behaviors. When they turn two, your toddler is actively talking, walking, climbing, jumping, running, and brimming with energy. Their vocabulary is expanding quickly as they continuously learn new words. Being aware of these milestones can help you support your child's development and pinpoint any areas that might need additional support.

Physical Development Milestones

Children are usually more energetic and active by the time they are two years old. Usually, they can: 

• Can run
• Kick or throw a ball
• Climb up and down from furniture without help
• Can make straight lines or circles
• Can turn over the container and pour out the contents
• Can build towers with blocks
• Can eat from a spoon
• Can brush hair
• Can twist doorknobs etc
• Can undress without any help
• Can turn book pages one at a time

Movement Development Milestones

• Walks on their own
• Can pull toys behind when walking
• Can carry a lot of stuff or big toys​
• starts to run
• Without help, can climb onto and off furniture
• Can walk up and down stairs with assistance
• Tosses and kicks balls
• Jumps with both feet off the ground​  

Cognitive Development Milestones

• Discovers hidden items behind layers of clothing
• Can sort shapes and colors
• Plays basic pretend
• Points to identified objects or images
• Completes lines and rhymes in famous books
• Adheres to two-step directions
• Utilizes switches, knobs, or buttons on toys
• Plays with multiple toys at once 
• Holds something in one hand while using the other
• Displays problem-solving abilities, such as standing on a small stool to reach something
• Pretends to feed a block to a doll as though it were food

Language and Communication Development Milestones

• Can say up to 2 to 4 sentences
• Can use at least 50 words
• Can point to parts of the body when names
• Can repeat the words or phrases
• Can follow simple directions
• Can tell the things in a book when asked
• Can understand and use the gestures of nodding yes or no
• Can Complete lines and rhymes in famous books
• Can highlight the object or picture when asked 
• Can understand and use more gestures other than waving or pointing
• Can talk with you in conversation with two or four sentences 

Social and Emotional Development

• Copies the behavior of other children and adults
• Acts stubbornly in an attempt to get more independence
• Has tantrums since they can't openly communicate their emotions
• Plays with other kids in groups rather than one-on-one 
• Recognizes when others are upset and may respond empathically
• Look at your face to judge your reaction in new situations
• Starts expressing more complex feelings, such as enthusiasm and frustration
• Enjoys displaying their abilities to you and frequently ask for approval by saying, "Look at me!"
• Adheres to basic instructions, such as helping to gather toys when it's time for cleanup.
• Seek solace and compassion at intense emotional moments, frequently in need of a hug 
• Begins to play using their imagination, occasionally copying events they see in their environment 
• May experience separation anxiety, but it passes after ten minutes 

Tips for Supporting Development

To facilitate your child's growth, take into account these suggestions:

Play with them: They may develop their motor and cognitive abilities by playing simple games like pretend play, tossing a ball, or building with blocks.

Encourage language skills: Promote language development by talking to your kid about what you both see and do. Encourage children to say out loud words and phrases while you read books to them.

Promote social interactions: Encourage social connections by setting up playgroups for kids to assist in the development of social skills. Positive habits like helping others and taking turns should be taught and encouraged.

Provide physical challenges: Give your kids the chance to safely run, climb, and explore. Their confidence and motor abilities both grow as a result.

Have patience and empathy: During tantrums, acknowledge their emotions and provide consolation. Show them compassion as they learn how to handle their feelings.

Monitoring Development

Even though every kid grows at a different rate, it's crucial to recognize any possible developmental delays. See a physician if your kid exhibits any of the following symptoms: not utilizing two-word sentences; not imitating words or gestures; or trouble walking steadily. If necessary, early intervention can offer vital help.

You can assist your child's success throughout this exciting developmental time by being aware of these milestones and creating a nurturing atmosphere.