Welcome to the exciting journey of parenting a 21-month-old toddler! This stage is filled with remarkable growth and development as your little one becomes more independent and curious about the world around them. As parents, it's essential to understand the developmental milestones your child should be reaching at this age. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional milestones typically achieved by 21-month-olds.
Toddlers at this age are on the move, constantly exploring their surroundings. They may be able to run, climb stairs, and even jump. They're also becoming more coordinated and may be able to throw a ball or kick a soccer ball. Their fine motor skills are also developing, and they may be able to stack blocks, turn pages in a book, and scribble with a crayon.
As you read through this guide, remember that every child develops at their own pace. These milestones are general guidelines to help you track your child's progress. If you have any concerns about your child's development, talk to your pediatrician.
21 month old milestones
Remarkable growth and development.
- Walking, running, climbing.
- Throwing, kicking balls.
- Stacking blocks, scribbling.
- One-word sentences, following simple instructions.
- Imitating adults, playing pretend.
- Expressing emotions, showing empathy.
- Independence, self-feeding.
- Potty training readiness.
Remember, every child develops at their own pace. Talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.
Walking, running, climbing.
At 21 months, most toddlers have mastered the art of walking and are exploring their newfound mobility with great enthusiasm. They may walk with a wide gait and have a tendency to fall, but their balance and coordination are improving rapidly. Some toddlers may even start running, though it may be more of a fast walk with occasional bursts of speed.
Climbing is another popular activity for 21-month-olds. They love to climb on furniture, stairs, and even playground equipment. This is a great way for them to develop their gross motor skills and coordination. However, it's important to supervise your toddler closely while they're climbing to prevent falls.
Here are some tips to help your toddler develop their walking, running, and climbing skills:
- Encourage your toddler to walk around the house or yard.
- Play games that involve walking or running, such as tag or hide-and-seek.
- Set up a safe climbing area for your toddler, such as a climbing gym or a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Supervise your toddler closely while they're climbing to prevent falls.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's walking, running, or climbing skills, talk to your pediatrician.
Throwing, kicking balls.
Throwing and kicking balls are great activities for 21-month-olds to develop their gross motor skills and coordination. These activities also help them learn about cause and effect, and they can be a lot of fun!
- Throwing:
At 21 months, most toddlers can throw a ball overhand. They may not be able to throw it very far or accurately, but they're getting the hang of it. You can help your toddler develop their throwing skills by playing catch with them or by setting up a target for them to throw at.
- Kicking:
Toddlers at this age also love to kick balls. They may not be able to kick it very hard or accurately, but they're having fun trying. You can help your toddler develop their kicking skills by playing soccer with them or by setting up a goal for them to kick the ball into.
- Coordination:
Throwing and kicking balls also help toddlers develop their coordination. They have to use their eyes, feet, and arms together to throw or kick the ball. This helps them learn how to control their movements and to coordinate their actions.
- Cause and effect:
Throwing and kicking balls also help toddlers learn about cause and effect. When they throw or kick the ball, they see that it moves. This helps them understand that their actions can have consequences.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's throwing or kicking skills, talk to your pediatrician.
Stacking blocks, scribbling.
Stacking blocks and scribbling are two activities that are not only fun for 21-month-olds, but also help them develop important skills.
- Stacking blocks:
Stacking blocks helps toddlers develop their fine motor skills and coordination. They have to use their fingers and hands to pick up the blocks and stack them on top of each other. This helps them learn how to control their movements and to coordinate their actions.
- Scribbling:
Scribbling is a great way for toddlers to express themselves and to explore their creativity. It also helps them develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. As they scribble, they are learning how to control their movements and to coordinate their actions.
- Problem-solving:
Stacking blocks and scribbling can also help toddlers develop their problem-solving skills. When they stack blocks, they have to figure out how to balance the blocks on top of each other without knocking them over. When they scribble, they have to figure out how to make the marks they want on the paper.
- Creativity:
Scribbling is a great way for toddlers to express their creativity. They can use different colors and shapes to create their own unique works of art.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's stacking or scribbling skills, talk to your pediatrician.
One-word sentences, following simple instructions.
At 21 months, most toddlers are starting to use one-word sentences. This means that they are able to combine two words together to express a thought or idea. For example, they might say "more juice" or "go outside." Toddlers at this age also start to understand and follow simple instructions. For example, you might tell them to "sit down" or "pick up the ball," and they will be able to do it.
Here are some tips to help your toddler develop their language skills:
- Talk to your toddler often. Talk to your toddler about everything you're doing, from getting dressed in the morning to making dinner at night. This will help them learn new words and how to use them.
- Read to your toddler. Reading to your toddler is a great way to help them develop their language skills. Point out new words and pictures, and encourage your toddler to talk about the story.
- Sing songs with your toddler. Singing songs with your toddler is a fun way to help them learn new words and phrases. You can also make up your own songs about your toddler's favorite things.
- Give your toddler simple instructions. Give your toddler simple instructions, such as "sit down" or "pick up the ball." This will help them learn to understand and follow directions.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's language skills, talk to your pediatrician.
Imitating adults, playing pretend.
Imitating adults and playing pretend are two important milestones for 21-month-olds. These activities help them learn about the world around them and develop their social and cognitive skills.
- Imitating adults:
Toddlers at this age love to imitate the adults in their lives. They may copy the way you talk, walk, or eat. They may also pretend to do things that they see you do, such as cooking dinner or driving a car. Imitating adults is a way for toddlers to learn about the world around them and to develop their social skills.
- Playing pretend:
Pretend play is another important milestone for 21-month-olds. Toddlers at this age love to pretend to be different people or things. They may pretend to be a doctor, a firefighter, or a superhero. They may also pretend to be animals or objects, such as a car or a train. Pretend play is a way for toddlers to explore their imaginations and to learn about different roles and relationships.
- Social skills:
Both imitating adults and playing pretend help toddlers develop their social skills. When they imitate adults, they are learning how to interact with others and how to behave in different situations. When they play pretend, they are learning how to cooperate with others and how to take turns.
- Cognitive skills:
Imitating adults and playing pretend also help toddlers develop their cognitive skills. When they imitate adults, they are learning about cause and effect and how things work. When they play pretend, they are learning how to solve problems and to think creatively.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's ability to imitate adults or play pretend, talk to your pediatrician.
Expressing emotions, showing empathy.
At 21 months, toddlers are starting to express their emotions more clearly and are also beginning to show empathy for others. This is an important milestone in their social and emotional development.
- Expressing emotions:
Toddlers at this age are able to express a wide range of emotions, including happiness, sadness, anger, and fear. They may also start to use words to describe their emotions. For example, they might say "I'm happy" or "I'm sad." It's important to help your toddler learn how to express their emotions in a healthy way.
- Showing empathy:
Toddlers at this age are also starting to show empathy for others. They may be able to tell when someone is feeling sad or upset, and they may try to comfort them. For example, they might give them a hug or say something nice to them. Showing empathy is an important part of social development and helps toddlers learn how to interact with others.
- Temper tantrums:
Temper tantrums are a common part of toddlerhood. Toddlers may have temper tantrums when they are frustrated, tired, or hungry. It's important to stay calm and patient when your toddler is having a temper tantrum. Try to figure out what is causing the tantrum and help your toddler to calm down.
- Talking about emotions:
It's important to talk to your toddler about emotions. Help them to identify their emotions and to understand why they are feeling them. You can also talk to your toddler about how to express their emotions in a healthy way.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's ability to express emotions or show empathy, talk to your pediatrician.
Independence, self-feeding.
Toddlers at this age are becoming more independent and are starting to want to do things for themselves. This includes self-feeding. While they may still need some help, 21-month-olds can start to feed themselves with a spoon and fork.
- Self-feeding:
Toddlers at this age can start to feed themselves with a spoon and fork. They may be messy at first, but they will get better with practice. You can help your toddler learn to self-feed by providing them with finger foods and by letting them practice using a spoon and fork at mealtimes.
- Dressing and undressing:
Toddlers at this age may also start to want to dress and undress themselves. They may not be able to do it perfectly at first, but they will get better with practice. You can help your toddler learn to dress and undress themselves by providing them with clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
- Potty training:
Some toddlers at this age may also be ready to start potty training. Signs that your toddler may be ready for potty training include: staying dry for longer periods of time, showing an interest in the toilet, and pulling down their pants or diaper.
- Encouraging independence:
It's important to encourage your toddler's independence. Let them try to do things for themselves, even if they make mistakes. This will help them to learn and grow.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's ability to be independent, talk to your pediatrician.
Potty training readiness.
Potty training is a big milestone for toddlers and parents alike. There is no right or wrong age to start potty training, but most toddlers are ready between 18 and 36 months old. Here are some signs that your toddler may be ready for potty training:
- Staying dry for longer periods of time:
If your toddler is staying dry for longer periods of time, such as overnight or during naps, this is a sign that they may be ready for potty training.
- Showing an interest in the toilet:
If your toddler is showing an interest in the toilet, such as by sitting on it or flushing it, this is a sign that they may be ready for potty training.
- Pulling down their pants or diaper:
If your toddler is starting to pull down their pants or diaper, this is a sign that they may be ready for potty training.
- Telling you when they need to go:
If your toddler is starting to tell you when they need to go potty, this is a sign that they may be ready for potty training.
If you think your toddler may be ready for potty training, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Talk to your toddler about potty training.
Explain to your toddler what potty training is and why it's important.
- Choose a potty training method.
There are many different potty training methods available. Talk to your pediatrician or other trusted source to find a method that is right for your family.
- Make sure your toddler is comfortable with the potty.
Let your toddler sit on the potty fully clothed at first. Once they are comfortable sitting on the potty, you can start having them try to go.
- Be patient and encouraging.
Potty training can take time. Be patient and encouraging with your toddler, and don't get discouraged if they have accidents.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's readiness for potty training, talk to your pediatrician.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about 21-month-old milestones:
Question 1: What are some common milestones for 21-month-olds?
Answer 1: Common milestones for 21-month-olds include walking, running, climbing, throwing and kicking balls, stacking blocks, scribbling, using one-word sentences and following simple instructions, imitating adults, playing pretend, expressing emotions, showing empathy, becoming more independent, and showing readiness for potty training.
Question 2: My toddler is not reaching all of the milestones. Should I be concerned?
Answer 2: Every child develops at their own pace. If you are concerned about your toddler's development, talk to your pediatrician. They can assess your toddler's progress and make sure that there are no underlying issues.
Question 3: How can I encourage my toddler to reach their milestones?
Answer 3: There are many things you can do to encourage your toddler to reach their milestones. Talk to your toddler often, read to them, sing songs with them, and give them opportunities to play and explore. You can also provide them with toys and activities that are designed to help them develop their skills.
Question 4: What are some signs that my toddler may be ready for potty training?
Answer 4: Signs that your toddler may be ready for potty training include staying dry for longer periods of time, showing an interest in the toilet, pulling down their pants or diaper, and telling you when they need to go.
Question 5: How can I potty train my toddler?
Answer 5: There are many different potty training methods available. Talk to your pediatrician or other trusted source to find a method that is right for your family. Be patient and encouraging with your toddler, and don't get discouraged if they have accidents.
Question 6: When should I talk to my pediatrician about my toddler's development?
Answer 6: You should talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your toddler's development. This includes if your toddler is not reaching their milestones, if they are having difficulty with potty training, or if they are showing any other signs of developmental delay.
Question 7: Where can I find more information about 21-month-old milestones?
Answer 7: There are many resources available to help you learn more about 21-month-old milestones. You can talk to your pediatrician, read books and articles about toddler development, and find information online from reputable sources.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: Remember, every child develops at their own pace. If you have any concerns about your toddler's development, talk to your pediatrician.
In addition to the information provided in the FAQ section, here are some additional tips for supporting your toddler's development:
Tips
Here are some additional tips for supporting your 21-month-old toddler's development:
Tip 1: Talk to your toddler.
Talk to your toddler about everything you're doing, from getting dressed in the morning to making dinner at night. This will help them learn new words and how to use them. You can also read to your toddler and sing songs with them.
Tip 2: Encourage your toddler to play.
Play is an important part of your toddler's development. It helps them learn about the world around them and develop their skills. Encourage your toddler to play with different toys and activities, both indoors and outdoors.
Tip 3: Set limits and boundaries.
Toddlers need to know what is expected of them. Set clear limits and boundaries for your toddler and be consistent with your discipline. This will help them learn what is acceptable behavior and what is not.
Tip 4: Be patient and encouraging.
Toddlers are learning and growing all the time. They will make mistakes. Be patient and encouraging with your toddler, and don't get discouraged if they don't reach their milestones overnight. Just keep providing them with love, support, and opportunities to learn.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: Remember, every child develops at their own pace. If you have any concerns about your toddler's development, talk to your pediatrician.
These are just a few tips to help you support your toddler's development. By providing your toddler with a loving and supportive environment, you can help them reach their full potential.
Conclusion
The 21-month-old stage is a time of remarkable growth and development. Toddlers at this age are becoming more independent, learning new skills, and expressing themselves in new ways. They are also starting to develop a sense of self and their place in the world.
As parents, it's important to be patient and supportive during this time. Toddlers learn best through play and exploration. By providing your toddler with a safe and loving environment, you can help them reach their full potential.
Here are some key points to remember about 21-month-old milestones:
- Toddlers at this age are walking, running, and climbing.
- They are also throwing and kicking balls, stacking blocks, and scribbling.
- They are starting to use one-word sentences and follow simple instructions.
- They are imitating adults, playing pretend, and expressing emotions.
- They are also becoming more independent and showing readiness for potty training.
If you have any concerns about your toddler's development, talk to your pediatrician. Remember, every child develops at their own pace. Just keep providing your toddler with love, support, and opportunities to learn, and they will reach their milestones in their own time.
Closing Message: The 21-month-old stage is a time of great joy and wonder. Cherish these moments as your toddler grows and learns. Before you know it, they will be all grown up!