Tired of changing diapers? When it comes to toilet teaching, take your cues from your child. Showing an interest in the potty, being aware of peeing and pooping, and expressing the need to go are signs that your child is probably ready. Build on that awareness by reading potty books together and "practicing" with a potty seat. Doctors use certain milestones to tell if a toddler is developing as expected. There's a wide range of what's considered normal, so some children gain skills earlier or later than others. Toddlers who were born prematurely reach milestones later. Always talk with your doctor about your child's progress. Here are some things your toddler might be doing: Communication and Language Skills says more than 50 words uses at least two-word sentences ("I go!") is understood half the time by a stranger uses real words ("breakfast") instead of baby talk ("num-nums") Movement and Physical Development stacks small blocks runs well kicks a ball walks down stairs draws lines and circular scribbles feeds himself or herself well Social and Emotional Development plays alongside other children fears things like loud sounds, certain animals, etc. might tell you when a diaper is soiled or he or she needs to use the potty Cognitive Skills (Thinking and Learning) can follow a two-step command ("Pick up your toy and put it on the shelf.") can name many body parts can pick out pictures in a book starts to engage in pretend play, such as feeding a baby doll matches shapes When Should I Call the Doctor? Every child develops at his or her own pace, but some signs could indicate a delay in development. Talk to your doctor if your child: doesn't run, or always walks on tippy toes doesn't speak, or makes vowel sounds but no consonants or words doesn't express emotions (happy, sad, frustrated, excited) in response to others or surroundings does not engage in pretend play makes limited eye contact Also, if you ever notice that your child has lost skills or shows weakness on one side of the body, tell your doctor. Back to Articles Related Articles Your Child's Checkup: 2 Years (24 Months) Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the second year. Read More Movement, Coordination, and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old Most toddlers this age are walking and gaining even more control over their hands and fingers. Give your child lots of fun (and safe) things to do to encourage this development. Read More Snacks for Toddlers Some toddlers may seem too busy exploring to slow down and eat. Others may be fickle about food or refuse to eat at mealtime. That's where healthy, well-timed snacks come in. Read More Communication and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old Your toddler is probably saying a few first words now, but you may not be able to understand them all. Learn about how your child is communicating. Read More Growth and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old You're in for a year of changes! Midway through this year, most babies are walking and starting to lose that "baby" look. Read More In-toeing & Out-toeing in Toddlers What is in-toeing and how will it affect your child? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Nutrition Guide for Toddlers While growth slows somewhat during the toddler years, it's a new era where kids will eat and drink more independently. Read More Safe Exploring for Toddlers Toddlers are learning to talk, to walk and run, and to assert their independence. For many in this age group, "outside" and "play" are common requests. Read More Toddlers: Learning by Playing It might look like just child's play, but toddlers are hard at work learning important physical skills as they gain muscle control, balance, and coordination. Read More Managing Your Toddler's Behavior (Video) Learn how to encourage good behavior, handle tantrums, and keep your cool when parenting your toddler. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.