What to Expect in Your Toddler’s Development (Ages 2 to 6)

The toddler years (ages 2 to 6) are a time of rapid growth — physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Watching your child become more independent and expressive is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. Understanding common milestones can help you support your toddler and know when to seek extra guidance.

The Adventurous Twos: Exploring Independence

Exploring Independence

At age two, toddlers take confident steps toward independence.

Typical milestones include:

  • Walking, running, climbing, kicking balls
  • Frequent “No!” responses and occasional tantrums
  • Vocabulary growing from a few words to several hundred
  • Combining words into simple sentences
  • Imitating adults and engaging in pretend play.

The Trusting Threes: Building Skills and Social Bonds

Building Skills and Social Bonds

Three-year-olds become increasingly adventurous and imaginative.

What to expect:

  • Improved balance and able pedal tricycles
  • Fine motor skills like drawing shapes and using scissors
  • Expanding vocabulary and forming short sentences
  • Enjoying cooperative play, sharing, and following simple rules
  • Understanding concepts like “mine” and “yours”

The Frustrating Fours: Curiosity and Emotional Growth

Four-year-olds show curiosity and emotional ups and downs.

Milestones often include:

  • Hopping on one foot, catching/throwing balls
  • Understanding counting and concepts like “same” and “different”
  • Vocabulary over 1,000 words, forming longer sentences
  • Rapid mood changes as they manage emotions
  • Enjoying group games and social interactions

The Fascinating Fives: Confidence and Responsibility

Confidence and Responsibility

By age five, children gain coordination and independence.

Common skills:

  • Skipping, jumping, hopping confidently
  • Dressing themselves and helping with chores
  • Storytelling and engaging in conversations
  • Forming close friendships and understanding cooperation
  • Seeking adult approval and feeling “grown-up”

The Sociable Sixes: Ready for School and Beyond

Ready for School and Beyond

At six, children are energetic and eager learners.

Typical developments:

  • Mastering skills like skipping rope and tying shoelaces
  • Writing letters and numbers; beginning to read
  • Longer attention spans but occasional distractions
  • Enjoying group play and competitive games
  • Developing teamwork, patience, and empathy

Supporting Your Toddler’s Growth

Every child develops at their own pace, so it’s normal for milestones to vary. Creating a loving, safe environment that encourages play, exploration, and learning helps your toddler thrive.

If you have concerns about your child’s development or behaviour, consult your paediatrician or family doctor early – timely support makes a big difference.

How Little Haven Family Clinic Supports Your Family

At Little Haven Family Clinic, we offer:

  • Regular developmental check-ups
  • Expert advice tailored to your child’s needs
  • Compassionate care during these formative years

 

At Little Haven Family Clinic, we are a CHAS GP clinic as well as PaedsENGAGE certified. If you have concerns about your child’s development or behaviour, book an appointment with us here.

📍 Find us at City Square Mall – kid-friendly, centrally located, and open on weekends for your convenience.