Not only another age milestone but a milestone in the range of skills as well as a large leap in their independence.
And just as they are seeking independence and doing it all themselves.
This may be the age of the ‘terrible twos’ emerging. This is simply because sometimes the frustration they feel in trying to master or do something outweighs the attempt.
Tantrums are completely normal as they vent their frustrations in the only way they know how. This is also the age when whining and whinges will rear its head and whilst perseverance is a trait they are learning in this context it can be very trying for the adult.
They have become their own little unique person now.
They will demonstrate their own personality although your style and reactions can influence their behaviour, they may not always behave in ways we approve.
A 2 year old will be quite chatty and will string together 2-3 word sentences and have a ‘conversation’ with you.
This is the age that they learn, and use, the word No and the power of it!
This is a great time to watch their play evolve as they will play make believe and have imaginary conversations with toys.
You may also hear them mimic things you do or say in their play. Being a 2 year old will be the age when they become possessive of their toys and sharing may present a challenge to them based on their egocentrism. They will want your attention at times during play and will seek it out.
They will attempt to do it all themselves and should be given as much opportunity to practice to succeed and master the skills they are learning.
It is also the age where they will be full of questions.
The word ‘Why’ may drive you a little crazy!
Affection…spontaneous cuddles and kisses are common in this age.
A 2 year can
- Can follow two directions i.e: “Please get hat and put on”.
- Separate from parents easier.
- Makes eye contact with people.
- Can choose activities by self.
- Shows concern and empathy for others and situations.
- Runs with control and can change directions.
- Balances well.
- Has confidence in climbing.
- Is establishing a complete hand preference.
- Threads large objects.
- Can paste, cut, paint,etc.
- Knows 2-3 colours.
- Attempts counting and recognises shapes and will attempt to name them.
- Walk up and down stairs using two feet per step holding a rail or hand to build to walking confidently.
- Squat and rise without using hands.
- Kicks a ball by walking into it to develop to kicking a large ball.
- Throw a ball with arms outstretched.
- Build a tower of 6 or more blocks.
- Draw at a scribble stage.
- Turn pages in books one page at a time.
- Plays imaginary games and imitates past events.
- Plays alone but alongside other children (parellel).
- Is developing concept of sharing.
- Refers to self by name.
- Language development- uses two or three words in a sentence, speaks clearly.
- Dance and copy movements.
- Tries walking backwards.
- Attempts to hop…somewhat successfully.
- Stands balancing on one leg with arms outstretched.
- Remembers familiar landmarks such as the shops, the park, etc.
- Their memory is improving and they remember a lot and take a lot in.