Kids this age love to play games of make-believe. But their imaginations can sometimes run away with them, and even spook them. Listen to your child's fears and be there to comfort and reassure him or her when needed. 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 may 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 strings at least three words together to form sentences is understood most of the time asks "why?" often understands spatial words (such as in, on, and under) Movement and Physical Development can walk up stairs with alternating feet might be able to catch a ball with full, outstretched arms can throw a ball overhead balances on one foot for 1 second can copy a circle and lines dresses and undresses with a little help Social and Emotional Development is toilet trained during the daytime can name a friend can indicate whether he or she is a boy or a girl plays make-believe takes turns while playing Cognitive Skills (Thinking and Learning) knows full (first and last) name and age engages in pretend play can count three objects does simple puzzles can retell a story from a book When Should I Call the Doctor? Every child develops at his or her own pace, but certain signs could indicate a delay in development. Talk to your doctor if your child: can't speak in sentences doesn't follow simple directions doesn't engage in pretend play doesn't jump has severe separation anxiety can't make strokes with a crayon or pencil 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: 3 Years Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the third year. 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 Growth and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old During the third year of life, toddlers are extremely active and mobile, and are learning in very physical ways. Read More Fitness and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old Kids this age are naturally active, so be sure to provide lots of opportunities for your child to practice basic skills, such as running, kicking, and throwing. 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 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.