Toddler Milestones Slideshow: Your Child's Second Year of Development
Baby's First Steps
One of the most thrilling toddler milestones usually comes early in the second year. That's when your child will probably walk without help, one wobbly step at a time. Most kids start walking between 9 and 17 months. The average age is about 14 months. There's no stopping them now!
Climbing
Your child will really start to explore once he figures out he can go up! "Up" means climbing up stairs and climbing on the furniture -- so be prepared for an adventure. Your toddler will probably start climbing furniture and stairs (while holding the railing) some time during the second year. Keep an eye on them and step in so they explore safely.
Kicking a Ball
Kicking a ball is a big step. Your toddler needs the coordination to kick, plus the ability to make the connection that if he kicks the ball, it will roll or bounce. Once your child discovers that balls bounce, he will probably throw toys, food, and other objects to see if they bounce, too.
Scribbling and Eating
It's too soon to tell if you’re raising the next Picasso, but your child’s early doodles will be priceless to you. During the second year, kids get more control over the small muscles in their hands and fingers. These fine-motor skills help toddlers scribble with crayons and eat with a spoon.
Reviewed by Kathy Empen, MD on October 28, 2011
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SOURCES:
American Academy of Pediatrics.
CDC.
Marat Zeltsman, DO, pediatrician, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital.
Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, MD, medical epidemiologist, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, CDC.
Michelle Bailey, MD, medical director, Duke Health Center at Southpoint.
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information:
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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