24 Months (2 Years) Milestones

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.

Kicks a Ball

CDC WHO

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

18 moavg 2 yr2 yr 4 mo2 yr 6 mo

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

CDC

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

18 moavg 22 mo2 yr 2 mo2 yr 4 mo

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.

Related:walking balance muscle tone

Jumps with Both Feet

CDC

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

20 moavg 2 yr2 yr 4 mo2 yr 6 mo

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.