Developmental stages Toddlerhood's a busy time and the next couple of years will bring plenty of changes.

You'll find it's sometimes hard work to keep up with your toddler as she walks with more and more confidence, and then begins to climb stairs - first by crawling, and later by holding a grown-up hand, and then finally up and down by herself, perhaps holding on to the wall or handrail, around the age of two.

By about this age, she'll also be able to kick and throw a ball and by three or four she'll gain the balance to ride a tricycle and run with confidence.

These are also the years in which speech develops. You'll find your toddler uses six to 20 words by around 18 months, and over the next six months or so, she'll put two words together to make simple sentences like "baby go" and "me drink".

From two to three years of age your child's curiosity will show in lots of questions, and you'll be able to enjoy real conversations as she begins to talk in longer sentences, and sing rhymes.

Meal times

Meal times will be messy as your toddler tries her skill at using a spoon and has a go at drinking from a cup. By three to four, there'll be less to clear up as she manages a cup well and uses a spoon, fork and possibly even a knife.

Using the loo

You'll be able to toilet train your toddler sometime between her second and third birthdays. By the age of three, most children are dry in the day although the majority still need nappies at night. She can probably use the loo instead of the potty as she develops confidence. Some parents prefer to teach use of the loo from the start, and with your help, many toddlers can do this well.

Getting dressed may take some time for you and your toddler as she'll be determined to do it herself.

Undressing will come first, though. You'll notice socks and shoes get pulled off followed by a 'game' as your toddler resists having them put back on. By three or four, she'll be able to undress once fastenings are undone and she will manage most simple pieces of clothing such as T-shirts and shorts.

Making a mark

As the second year draws on your child will get interested in making her mark. Scribbling with a chunky pen or crayon will make that first exciting picture. By two to three you'll find circles and lines appearing in the drawings, and by the time she gets to preschool you may see these shapes being put together to form stick figures.

Playing

Playing alone or with you will give way to wanting to play alongside other children, and then in pairs and groups as your child gets to preschool age. The skills of sharing and taking turns will come along after three - squabbles over toys may then calm down.

The information provided here should be used as a guide only. Children develop at different stages, but if you're concerned you should contact your doctor or health professional.

This article was last reviewed by Heather Welford in August 2008.

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