24 Months (2 Years) Milestones
Content reviewed against published CDC, WHO, AAP guidelines
Last reviewed:
The "terrible twos" are actually a sign of healthy development. Your child is learning independence, testing boundaries, and feeling big emotions in a small body. Tantrums, saying "no," and wanting to do everything themselves are all completely normal. This is hard, but you're doing great.
Key takeaways
- Gross motor: Kicks a Ball
- Fine motor: Stacks 4+ Blocks
- Language: Uses 2-Word Phrases
- Social-emotional: Pretend Play
- Cognitive: Sorts Shapes and Colors
“Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving 'bye-bye' are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move.”
Your toddler can kick a ball forward without losing their balance.
What it looks like
They walk up to a ball on the ground and swing their foot to kick it. It might not go far, but they stay upright and clearly meant to do it.
Typical range
When should I worry?
This is normal
Some kids figure out kicking as early as 18 months, but lots of two-year-olds are still working on it. If your child loves running but hasn't tried kicking yet, that's perfectly fine.
Mention at next visit
If by 28-30 months your toddler can't kick a ball forward or seems very unsteady on one foot, it's worth mentioning at the next visit.
Call your doctor
If your child has lost the ability to walk or stand, or if one leg consistently seems weaker or stiffer than the other, call your pediatrician soon.
Runs
Your toddler can run, even if it looks a little wobbly.
What it looks like
They move faster than a walk, with both feet briefly off the ground. It's often a cute, stiff-legged trot at first, and that's completely normal.
Typical range
When should I worry?
This is normal
Many toddlers start running between 18 and 24 months. Some cautious kids take a little longer, especially if they only recently started walking confidently.
Mention at next visit
If your child isn't attempting to run by 26-28 months, or always falls when trying, mention it at your next well-child visit.
Call your doctor
If your child was running and has suddenly stopped, or has new difficulty with walking, contact your pediatrician promptly.
Jumps with Both Feet
Your toddler can jump up with both feet leaving the ground at the same time.
What it looks like
They bend their knees and launch upward. Both feet leave the floor, even if only by a tiny bit. Landing might be a little clumsy.
Typical range
When should I worry?
This is normal
Jumping is a big coordination feat! Many kids don't truly get both feet off the ground until closer to their second birthday, and some perfectly healthy kids take until 28 months.
Mention at next visit
If your child can't jump with both feet by 30 months, or seems unable to bend their knees to try, bring it up with your pediatrician.
Call your doctor
If your child is losing the ability to stand, squat, or bear weight on their legs, call your doctor right away.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Red flags to watch for
If you notice any of the following, contact your pediatrician. These signs do not necessarily mean something is wrong, but they are worth discussing with a professional.
Does not use 2-word phrases (like "drink milk" or "go car")
What to do
Talk to your pediatrician at the next visit. A speech evaluation may help.
Does not know what to do with common objects (brush, phone, spoon)
What to do
Mention this to your pediatrician. It could suggest a need for further evaluation.
Does not copy actions or words
What to do
Discuss with your pediatrician. Imitation is a key building block for learning.
Does not follow simple instructions
What to do
Talk to your doctor, especially if hearing hasn't been checked. A hearing test is a good first step.
Does not walk steadily
What to do
Contact your pediatrician for a motor development evaluation.
Loses skills they once had
What to do
This is always worth a prompt call to your doctor. Losing skills can sometimes signal a condition that benefits from early intervention.
Frequently asked questions
What milestones should a 24 months (2 years) baby have?
When should I worry about my 24 months (2 years) baby's development?
What are the red flags at 24 months (2 years)?
Bottom line
Every baby develops at their own pace. The 24 months (2 years) milestones listed here are typical ranges based on CDC, WHO, and AAP guidelines. Missing a milestone doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong, but talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
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