Developmental milestones: what most children can do by 2 years

Mark the skills your child already has. These are things most children (75% or more) can do by 2 years. If one is not there yet, it is a reason to talk to a specialist, not a reason to worry.

A checklist for parents — a guide, not a screening test or a diagnosis.

Social/Emotional

Notices when others are hurt or upset, like pausing or looking sad when someone is crying
Looks at your face to see how to react in a new situation

Language/Communication

Points to things in a book when you ask, like "Where is the bear?"
Says at least two words together, like "More milk."
Points to at least two body parts when you ask him to show you
Uses more gestures than just waving and pointing, like blowing a kiss or nodding yes

Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving)

Holds something in one hand while using the other hand; for example, holding a container and taking the lid off
Tries to use switches, knobs, or buttons on a toy
Plays with more than one toy at the same time, like putting toy food on a toy plate

Movement/Physical Development

Kicks a ball
Runs
Walks (not climbs) up a few stairs with or without help
Eats with a spoon

What you can do now

Help your child learn how words sound, even if he can't say them clearly yet. For example, if your child says, "or nana," say "You want more banana."
Watch your child closely during playdates. Children this age play next to each other, but do not know how to share and solve problems. Show your child how to deal with conflicts by helping her share, take turns, and use words when possible.
Have your child help you get ready for mealtime, by letting him carry things to the table, such as plastic cups or napkins. Thank your child for helping.

When to talk to a specialist

Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor or a specialist and share the checklist.

Sources

The milestones and tips are from CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA), revised in 2022 together with the American Academy of Pediatrics. Source: CDC. The original is available free of charge on the CDC website. CDC does not endorse SOPBG.org.