Your baby at 2 years: milestones, feeding & growth
Typical milestones (a guide, not a test)
Cognitive (learning/thinking)
- Holds something in one hand while using the other hand; for example, holding a container and taking the lid offCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Tries to use switches, knobs, or buttons on a toyCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Plays with more than one toy at the same time, like putting toy food on a toy plateCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Language & Communication
- Points to things in a book when you ask, like "Where is the bear?"CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Says at least two words together, like "More milk."CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Points to at least two body parts when you ask him to show youCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Uses more gestures than just waving and pointing, like blowing a kiss or nodding yesCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Movement & Physical
- Kicks a ballCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- RunsCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Walks (not climbs) up a few stairs with or without helpCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Eats with a spoonCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Social & Emotional
- Notices when others are hurt or upset, like pausing or looking sad when someone is cryingCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
- Looks at your face to see how to react in a new situationCDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. (2022 revision)
Feeding
- Avoid whole nuts, whole grapes, popcorn, hard raw vegetables, chunks of meat/cheese (choking). — modify texture <4 years
- Family foods + continued breastfeeding — Full family diet (appropriately textured). Cow's milk can become a drink after 12 months. Continue breastfeeding to 2 years and beyond.
- Introduce common allergens (peanut, egg) from ~6 months in age-appropriate form — early introduction reduces allergy risk (LEAP/EAT). — INTRODUCE from ~6 months
Play & bonding
Keeping baby safe
- Babyproof: cover outlets, secure cabinets/heavy furniture (anchor to wall), use stair gates., Poison: store medicines, cleaners, and detergents locked and out of reach; keep Poison Control number handy., Choking: avoid whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, hard candy; cut foods small., Water: fence pools; supervise near any water at all times., Car seat: rear-facing until at least age 2 (or seat max).
Sleep
- Ranges are per 24 hours and, for children through preschool, include naps. Individual needs vary. — 11-14
Part of Toddler: 1 to 3 years.
educational reference only; milestones are general guides — discuss any concerns with a pediatrician. Not a diagnostic tool.