At this age, toddlers often start putting two words together, use gestures to express themselves, and try eating with a spoon on their own. Based on CDC resources, the following play ideas may be helpful at this age.
Sensory Play
- Keep exploring toys with varied textures, along with sand or water play.
- Moving to music or swaying to a rhythm is often enjoyed at this age.
Physical/Gross Motor Play
- Let your toddler practice running freely in a safe space.
- Kicking a ball or going up and down stairs helps build balance.
Fine Motor & Exploration Play
- Let your toddler hold a spoon to self-feed and practice drinking from a cup.
- Try simple puzzles or shape-sorting toys to encourage problem-solving.
Language & Social Play
- Play a body-parts game by asking your toddler to point to two body parts.
- Encourage two-word phrases like “more cookies,” and try new gestures beyond waving, like blowing a kiss.
- Point to objects in a picture book and talk about them together.
Play Tips for This Age
Matching and shape-sorting games are considered helpful for cognitive development at this age. Encouraging attempts at self-dressing or using a spoon can support growing independence.
When to Consider Talking with a Pediatrician
If your toddler isn’t putting two words together, can’t point to show you something they want, or doesn’t seem to know what to do with familiar objects like a spoon by around 24 months, checking in with a pediatric provider may be helpful. This information isn’t a diagnostic tool and doesn’t replace advice from a medical professional.