Milestones are skills that most children reach by a certain age. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its milestone lists in 2022 so that each one describes what most children (about 3 in 4) can do by that age. Missing one milestone is a reason to talk with a doctor, not a reason to panic.
By about 2 years, most children
- Talking: say at least two words together, such as “more milk”; point to things in a book when asked; point to at least two body parts.
- Social: notice when others are hurt or upset; look at your face to see how to react in a new situation.
- Thinking: hold something in one hand while using the other; try to use switches or buttons on a toy; play with more than one toy at the same time.
- Movement: kick a ball; run; walk up a few stairs with or without help; eat with a spoon.
By about 3 years, most children
- Talking: hold a conversation with at least two back-and-forth exchanges; ask “who”, “what”, “where” or “why” questions; say their first name when asked; talk well enough for others to understand most of the time.
- Social: calm down within about ten minutes after a parent leaves; notice other children and join them to play.
- Thinking: draw a circle when shown how; avoid touching hot objects when warned.
- Movement: string large beads; put on some clothes by themselves; use a fork.
How to use milestones well
- Look at the overall pattern and progress over months, not a single day.
- Remember that children born early may reach milestones later; doctors usually adjust for this.
- Write down what you notice before a check-up, so you remember your questions.
When to ask for advice
Speak with your child’s doctor if your child is not reaching several milestones for their age, if you are worried about hearing or vision, or if your child loses skills they once had. Early assessment gives clear answers, and early support, where needed, works best.