Skip navigation

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/toddlerdevelopment.html

Toddler Development

On this page

See, Play and Learn

  • No links available

Summary

Mastering new skills such as how to walk, talk, and use the potty are developmental milestones. It is exciting to watch your toddler learn new skills. The normal development of children aged 1-3 includes several areas:

  • Gross motor - walking, running, climbing
  • Fine motor - feeding themselves, drawing
  • Sensory - seeing, hearing, tasting, touching, and smelling
  • Language - saying single words, then sentences
  • Social - playing with others, taking turns, doing fantasy play

Toddlers do not develop at the same rate. There is a wide range of what is considered "normal." Your child may be ahead in some areas and slightly behind in others. If you are worried about possible delays, talk to your child's health care provider.

Start Here

Diagnosis and Tests

Treatments and Therapies

Related Issues

Specifics

Clinical Trials

Reference Desk

Patient Handouts

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.