Toddlerhood is such an exciting stage of life! From their first wobbly steps to curious questions about the world around them, these early years are filled with incredible growth and discovery. But with so many changes happening so quickly, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to keep track of what milestones to expect.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you better understand the physical and intellectual milestones for toddlers aged 1-3 years. Let’s explore how your little one is developing, what you can do to support them, and why every child’s journey is beautifully unique.

Physical Milestones for Toddlers (1-3 years)

From the moment they take their first steps, toddlers are on the move—and they’re not slowing down anytime soon! Here are some key physical milestones you might notice during these years:

Gross Motor Skills:

Gross motor skills involve large muscle movements like running, jumping, and climbing.

• 12-18 Months: Most toddlers take their first steps around this time. They may also start to climb onto furniture, squat to pick up toys, and push toys while walking.

• 18-24 Months: You’ll see improvements in balance and coordination as they start running, kicking a ball, or pulling toys behind them.

• 2-3 Years: Toddlers begin to jump with both feet, navigate stairs with some assistance, and even start riding small tricycles.

Fine Motor Skills:

Fine motor development involves smaller, more precise movements that use the hands and fingers.

• 12-18 Months: Picking up small objects, using a spoon, and stacking blocks become common activities.

• 18-24 Months: Toddlers may start scribbling with crayons, turning pages in a book, and building taller block towers.

• 2-3 Years: Look for milestones like threading beads, opening jars, and even beginning to copy simple shapes like circles or lines.

Supporting Physical Development:

• Encourage movement: Create safe spaces where your toddler can explore and practice new skills.

• Offer interactive toys: Balls, stacking cups, and pull-along toys are all great for building motor skills.

• Celebrate progress: Remember, every child develops at their own pace, so celebrate their unique achievements without comparing them to others.

Intellectual Milestones for Toddlers (1-3 years)

Toddlers are like little scientists, constantly learning through exploration, play, and observation. Their intellectual milestones reflect how they’re beginning to understand the world around them and express their thoughts and emotions.

Cognitive Development:

• 12-18 Months: Toddlers start recognizing objects and understanding simple instructions like “Come here” or “Give me the ball.” They’ll enjoy pointing to things in books and mimicking simple actions.

• 18-24 Months: Problem-solving skills start to shine! You’ll notice them figuring out how to fit shapes into a sorter or stacking blocks in a specific order. They’ll also begin using words to label objects and express their needs.

• 2-3 Years: Their imagination takes off. Pretend play becomes a favorite activity, and they may start asking “why” questions about the world around them.

Language Development:

• 12-18 Months: Expect a mix of babbling and first words like “mama” or “dada.” They’ll also begin to understand and respond to simple questions.

• 18-24 Months: Vocabulary grows rapidly. Toddlers may string two or three words together to form simple sentences like “Want cookie” or “Go outside.”

• 2-3 Years: By this stage, toddlers often know hundreds of words and can hold simple conversations. They’ll enjoy singing songs, naming objects, and telling short stories.

Supporting Intellectual Development:

• Read together: Books are a wonderful way to build vocabulary and spark curiosity.

• Provide open-ended toys: Puzzles, blocks, and pretend play items like kitchen sets encourage problem-solving and creativity.

• Engage in conversation: Narrate your day, ask them questions, and encourage them to share their thoughts.

The Journey Through Toddlerhood Milestones

It’s important to remember that every child’s development is unique. Milestones provide helpful guidelines, but there’s no “right” timeline for your toddler’s growth. Some kids may excel in physical skills early on, while others might focus more on language or problem-solving. Both are equally amazing.

As parents, the best thing we can do is create a nurturing environment where our little ones feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore. Whether they’re stacking blocks, asking endless questions, or running circles around the living room, these moments are building the foundation for the incredible people they’re becoming.

At Eco Pea Co., we’re honored to be part of your journey. From milestones big and small, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For more parenting tips, check out our blog or follow us on social media. Let’s celebrate these unforgettable early years together!