Parenting Tips for Your 31-32 Month Old Toddler
A developmental assessment measures the progress of toddlers as they learn to walk, feed themselves, listen to stories, understand stories, say words, ask for toys, and follow directions. For an example of what developmental screening looks like see http://www.firstsigns.org/screening/dev.htm
There are normal differences in children’s development, but infants and toddlers learn tasks at about the same age. If a toddler falls behind, she may have a problem that requires special help. Doctors and nurses do a developmental check-up by observing and talking to your child during the physical exam and by asking about your child’s health history.
Information from parents is especially important, since parents know their children better than anyone else. Parents know what their child can do even if their child is shy about doing these things in front of the doctor.
If developmental lags or delays are found during the physical exam, additional testing should be done by experts in child growth and development. Parents should ask for this service. For more information on what you can expect in your child's development, read developmental milestones from the:
A doctor or nurse might look for these skills during the toddler’s health check-up. This is what a typical toddler can do at about 2-3 years of age:
- Stands on one foot with slight support.
- Attempts to turn pages of a book or magazine on his own or after being shown how to do it.
- Uses a cup and spoon.
- Expresses feelings through behavior, such as kicking, holding breath, running away.
- Will point, touch, or look at something when asked such as shoes, own toy, or clothing.
- Says simple words or sounds. After being given a block, the child follows two out of four instructions, such as “put on table,” “put on chair,” “give to mama,” “give to me.”
