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

Play & bonding

Keeping baby safe

Sleep

Part of Toddler: 1 to 3 years.

educational reference only; milestones are general guides — discuss any concerns with a pediatrician. Not a diagnostic tool.