Developmental Milestones

Toddlers: 1 to 3 yrs.

Physical Development (Toddlers) Physical growth slows a bit 18 mos.- walks without help; builds tower

with 3 blocks; begins to run & climb; turns pages of a book; slides down stairs backwards

2 yrs.- runs but can’t stop; throws & kicks balls clumsily

Physical Development (Toddlers) 3 yrs.- alternates feet going upstairs ( not

down); cuts with scissors; strings large beads; may catch ball with straight arms; jumps; rides a tricycle

2 to 3 yrs.- sphincter muscles mature to allow for toilet training

Intellectual Development (Toddlers) 2 to 6 yrs.- Pre-operational stage Representation (words stand for objects and

actions) Begins to organize information into

concepts/categories Incidental (accidental), Trial & error, Imitative, &

Directed learning Memory, attention span, & focus improve 2 to 3 yrs.- Mental problem-solving; puts things

together & takes them apart

Language Development (Toddlers) Learns to talk to express needs, thoughts,

& ideas Groups of words 3 yrs.- Simple sentences

Emotional Development (Toddlers) Many attitudes about self come from

people who care for them May do opposite of what others want Frustration – “outbursts”; tantrums May develop “I can do it” attitude with

support

Social Development (Toddlers) Parallel play (alongside other children, not

with them) 2 yrs.- struggle between independence &

need for others Likes routines – “sameness” May be stubborn, demanding,

domineering at times Discipline – be consistent

Moral Development (Toddlers) Begins to understand what is “right” &

“wrong” (They test behaviors & watch results)