It’s easy to compare your toddler to others the same age and then worry that yours is behind—whether in walking, using a sippy cup with ease or saying actual words.

But just as it was when your child was a baby, toddlers reach developmental milestones at their own pace. And each milestone can occur over a period of time.The ages you see listed in books and online for various achievements (walking, speaking in sentences, etc.,) are approximations—not exact timetables.

For example, while girls tend to speak earlier than boys and reach other milestones in communicating and socializing a bit sooner, boys catch up and the 2 genders are pretty equal in middle childhood. Similarly, while many boys learn to walk earlier (sometimes before age 1), girls catch up—usually within the first few months of their 2nd year.

If your toddler has older siblings, she may hit certain milestones earlier than your previous children, which makes lots of sense. With older children around to model language and behavior, she doesn’t want to fall behind.

As always, talk with your child’s healthcare provider about any developmental concerns you may have.

See also ...

• When your toddler isn’t hitting milestones 
• Developmental milestones in 1- to 2-year olds
• Typical toddler development

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.

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