Toddler Stage
(1 To 3 Years)
Big feelings, new words, and unstoppable curiosity. One of the most exciting (and exhausting) stages of early childhood.
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About This Stage
Welcome to the age of ‘no’, boundless energy, and a daily vocabulary explosion. Toddlers are scientists at heart — they test limits not to frustrate you but to map the edges of their world.
With patience and the right environment, this wonderfully chaotic stage builds the independence, language, and confidence that preschool depends on.
What to Expect
Physical
- Walks independently and begins to run by 15 months
- Climbs furniture and stairs with improving coordination
- Kicks and throws a ball with growing aim by age 2
- Begins to dress and undress with minimal help by age 3
Cognitive
- Points to objects and named pictures in books
- Engages in simple pretend play from around 18 months
- Sorts basic shapes and colours in simple puzzles
- Understands simple cause-and-effect relationships
Language
- Says 10–20 words by 18 months
- Combines two words into short phrases by age 2
- Uses 200–300 words and short sentences by age 3
- Refers to themselves by name and begins using pronouns
Social & Emotional
- Shows intense separation anxiety around 18 months
- Has frequent tantrums as emotions outpace language
- Plays alongside — but not yet with — other children
- Demonstrates affection openly with familiar people
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[mc4wp_form id=32509]Navigate the Toddler Years with Confidence
Expert advice and carefully chosen products to help you and your toddler thrive.