Physical
Development
- Is constantly in motion.
- Tires easily.
- Runs and climbs.
- Walks up and down stairs alone.
- Starts to walk on tiptoes.
- Can build a tower of 3 to 5 blocks.
- Goes from random scribbling to
somewhat more controlled movements.
- Can button and unbutton large buttons.
- Develops greater independence in
toileting needs (still needs some help).
- May have trouble settling down for
bedtime.
Emotional Development
- Gets upset and impatient easily.
- Shows anger by crying or striking out.
- Gets frustrated when not understood.
- Wants own way.
- May assert self by saying "no".
- Goes back to baby behavior at times.
- Is upset when daily routine changes.
- Has sharp mood changes.
Social Development
- Likes to imitate others.
- Becomes more interested in brothers
and sisters.
- Knows gender.
- May have an imaginary playmate.
- Enjoys playing among, not with, other
children.
- Does not share.
- Claims everything is "mine".
- May scratch, hit, bite, and push other
children.
Mental Development
- Is much more interested in language.
- Uses child grammar.
- Uses 3- to 5-word phrases by end of
second year.
- Understands more words than can speak.
- Likes to "do-it-myself".
- Cannot be reasoned with much of the
time.
- Cannot choose between alternatives.
Each child is unique. It is therefore difficult to describe
exactly what should be expected at each stage of a child's
development. While certain attitudes, behaviors, and
physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide
spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal.
These guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general
progression through the developmental stages rather than as
fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages.
It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some
milestones earlier and other milestones later than the
general trend.
If you have any concerns related to your
child's own pattern of development, check with your health
care provider.