Toddler Development

You may have heard the saying “the first years last forever.” This means that a toddler’s experiences during early months and years of life affect his or her health, well‑being, and coping skills throughout life. Use this section of the website to help you understand your toddler’s development from 6 to 36 months.

Introduction to Toddler Development

During the toddler years, your child will go through a time of rapid change in all areas of development. Learn about the five areas of child development.

Ages 6‑9 Months

At 6‑9 months, your toddler will probably explore objects by grabbing, shaking, sliding, and banging them. Discover how to support your toddler’s development.

Ages 9‑12 Months

At 9‑12 months, your toddler will probably show many emotions, such as being sad, happy, mad, scared, hurt, or uncomfortable. Find out how to continue to support your toddler’s development at this age.

Ages 12‑18 Months

At 12‑18 months, your toddler will probably boldly explore and try new things. Learn about how to continue to support your toddler’s development at this age.

Ages 18‑24 Months

At 18‑24 months, your toddler will probably sing simple songs with words and actions. Read about how to continue to support your toddler’s development at this stage.

Ages 24‑30 Months

At 24‑30 months, your toddler will probably ask simple questions, such as “What’s your name?” Find out how you can continue to support your toddler’s development at this age.

Ages 30‑36 Months

At 30‑36 months, your toddler will probably try to play‑act thoughts and ideas. Learn about how you can continue to support your toddler’s development at this age.