Physical
Development
- Jumps, gallops, tiptoes, and runs
smoothly.
- Can walk backwards a long distance.
- May stumble and fall often.
- Rides a tricycle.
- Can pour from a pitcher or milk carton
using both hands.
- Undresses self, but needs help with
dressing.
- Uses crayons.
- Primary teeth come in.
Emotional Development
- Becomes more relaxed and flexible.
- Cries and hits at times.
- Quickly switches from shyness to high
spirits and back.
- May show fear of unfamiliar objects or
activities.
- May want to be a baby at times.
- Starts to talk about dreams.
Social Development
- Is keenly interested in family
activities.
- Sees parents as heroes.
- Seeks approval from adults.
- Tests limits constantly.
- Often prefers to play alone.
- May have an imaginary playmate.
- Shares and takes turns occasionally.
- Quarrels with other children.
Mental Development
- Develops a somewhat stable concept of
self.
- Speaks about 1,000 words.
- Starts to use pronouns in speech.
- Loves to hear stories over and over
again.
- Enjoys learning short rhymes and
songs.
- May match or identify primary colors.
- Enjoys imaginative and imitative play.
- Can take on some very simple
responsibilities.
- Puts toys away with adult help.
- Has attention span of no more than a
few minutes.
- Can 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.