There are a number of behaviors that we would expect to see in a child who was two years old, about to turn three. These are called milestones. Developmental milestones are behaviors that most children can do at a specific age range.
The interesting thing about developmental milestones is that children just seem to know what skills they should be learning next. You don’t have to teach a typically developing child that after using one word phrase to communicate, they should begin to use two word phrases. They just seem to know that on their own.
Same with jumping. I’ve always marveled at the fact that right around the time when children should learn to jump, they seem to know that they should give it a try. You see toddlers beginning to push up onto their tip toes, and eventually get a little lift in attempts to jump.
So, let’s talk about the behavior that we would expect a two year old child to be doing. Again, the developmental milestones discussed in this list are all things that you child should be doing by the end of 2 years.
Social and Emotional Developmental Milestones
In the year that your child is two years old, they should be:
- Recognizing that someone is hurt or sad. They demonstrate this by pausing and looking, appearing sad themselves, or maybe even pointing and saying words like, “sad”.
- Looking to you to see your reaction in a novel situation.
- Copying what others do.
- Excited around other children.
- Protest by saying no.
Language and Communication Developmental Milestones
In the year that your child is two years old, they should be:
- Using a one-fingered point to people or objects when you ask questions such as, “Where is Daddy?”
- Saying at least two words together to communicate, such as, “Need help.”
- Identifying at least two body parts by pointing at them when you ask questions like, “Where are you eyes?”
- Repeat words they heard in a conversation.
- Using gestures such as holding one finger up to say, “Shhh,” or giving a thumbs up.
Cognitive Developmental Milestones
In the year that your child is two years old, they should be:
- Able to use two hands together to do like holding a container with one hand and taking the lid off with the other.
- Trying to use knobs, switches, or buttons on a toy or book.
- Playing simple make-believe games.
- Following two part directions like, “Get the book and give it to Mommy.”
- Playing with multiple toys together, like driving a car on a track.
Movement and Physical Developmental Milestones
In the year that your child is two years old, they should be to do the following large motor skills:
- Run.
- Throw a ball overhand.
- Kick a ball.
- Stand on tiptoes.
- Walk up the stairs
- Climb up and down on furniture.
- Eat with an utensil like a spoon.
- Carry a large toy while walking.
In the year that your child is two years old, they should be to do the following fine motor skills:
- Scribble with a writing utensil.
- Build a tower with four or more blocks.
Concerned About Your Two Year Old’s Development?
If your two year old is not demonstrating these behaviors by the time they are three years old, be sure to talk to your child’s doctor at their next appointment.