← All ages

2–3 years

Play, practice, repeat

Two- to three-year-olds learn through doing. Their movement, language, imagination and independence expand when they can repeat familiar actions in playful ways.

What’s growing right now?

Every child develops in their own way. Here are some of the skills you may notice emerging during this stage.

Big body play

Running, jumping, climbing and kicking help build coordination and confidence.

Busy little hands

Turning, threading, scribbling and building support hand control.

Talking & pretending

Language and pretend play begin to grow together.

I can try

Simple routines, choices and problem-solving build independence.

What might I notice?

Choose the stage that feels closest to where your child is right now.

24–27 months

Big body play

Running, jumping, climbing and kicking help build coordination and confidence.

27–30 months

Busy little hands

Turning, threading, scribbling and building support hand control.

30–33 months

Talking & pretending

Language and pretend play begin to grow together.

33–36 months

I can try

Simple routines, choices and problem-solving build independence.

Try this today

Simple activities that fit into everyday life — no special equipment required.

Movement

Animal moves

Try 5 frog jumps, 5 bear steps and a short run to a target.

Hands

Playdough press

Roll, squash, pinch and poke playdough with both hands.

Language

Pretend café

Take turns ordering, serving and naming pretend food.

Planning

Mini obstacle path

Step over a cushion, crawl under a chair and jump to a marker.

Everyday moments count

Bath time, dressing, meals, play and getting ready to leave are all opportunities to practise movement, communication, problem-solving and independence.

Keep in mind: Development is variable. Look for overall progress over time rather than expecting every skill to appear at an exact age.

When should I ask for support?

If you are worried about your child’s development, regression, feeding, movement, communication or participation in everyday life, speak with an appropriate healthcare professional.

This website offers general developmental education and activity ideas. It does not diagnose developmental conditions or replace individual assessment.

Next stage: 3–4 years →