Ah, the whirlwind of toddlerhood! It feels like just yesterday you were welcoming your bundle of joy, and now they’re nearing the big two! In this brief moment, you’ve witnessed the transformation into a lively, witty little individual who’s likely convinced that every moment of your day should revolve around their whims. And honestly, it’s hard to argue against their charm!
As your little one embraces their independence, it’s easy to feel like they’re racing through milestones and might be behind the wheel in no time. But rest assured, there’s a journey of development ahead! Here’s what to expect from your 22- to 24-month-old.
Growth and Development Milestones
Weight Range
Unlike infants who gain weight rapidly, toddlers grow at a steadier pace. For toddlers aged 22 to 24 months, the average weight for girls is between 25.4 and 26.6 pounds, while boys typically weigh between 25.9 and 27.5 pounds, according to the World Health Organization.
Nutrition Needs
Your little one should ideally be enjoying three meals and two snacks daily—though good luck getting them to cooperate! Offering a diverse selection of wholesome foods from all food groups is key. Aim for around ¾ to 1 cup of fruits and vegetables, ¼ cup of grains, and three tablespoons of protein each day. Also, don’t forget calcium! If whole milk isn’t an option, consult their pediatrician for alternatives to ensure they’re getting the necessary nutrients.
Sleep Requirements
At this age, toddlers generally require about 11 to 12 hours of sleep at night, plus an additional 1.5 to 3 hours during the day. This totals around 13 to 14 hours of sleep each day, as noted by the National Sleep Foundation.
Key Milestones: Physical, Social, and Cognitive Skills
Physical Development
By now, your child is probably running, jumping, climbing, and generally exploring all that their little legs can do. Unless there are known physical delays, they should be confidently on the move!
Language Development
Between 22 and 24 months, toddlers often see a language explosion! Expect your little one to have a vocabulary of at least 50 words, with some mastering up to 200. They might start using simple sentences and even sing the ABCs. Typically, they learn 1 to 7 new words weekly, and you might hear them forming phrases like “I want!” and following simple instructions.
Behavioral Insights
Welcome to the “terrible twos”! While some parents find that three is the more challenging age, this phase is notorious for tantrums. This behavior often stems from your toddler grappling with independence and understanding rules. It’s a tough balancing act, but hang in there—you’re doing great!
Potty Training
While most children are ready for potty training between 27 and 32 months, some may show signs of readiness earlier. If your toddler gives you cues, don’t hesitate to start the process; just remember to move at their pace!
Health Checkups
Be prepared for your toddler’s second birthday checkup, where the pediatrician will measure weight, height, head circumference, and BMI, and might perform a screening for early signs of autism. This is also a great opportunity for you to discuss any concerns or questions with the doctor.
Immunizations
At this stage, vaccination frequency decreases. Your child might receive an annual flu shot and possibly a Hepatitis A vaccine if they haven’t already.
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Summary
As your toddler approaches their second birthday, they are hitting key milestones in physical, social, and cognitive development. From weight and nutrition to sleep needs and behavioral changes, it’s a time of exciting growth. Keep a close watch on their language skills as they begin to express themselves more clearly. And don’t forget about those important health checkups!
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