What Most Children Do by 30 Months
Social/Emotional Milestones
- Plays next to other children and sometimes plays with them
- Says “Look at me!” to show what she can do
- Follows simple routines when told
Language/Communication Milestones
- Says about 50 words
- Says two or more words together with an action word
- Names things in a book when you point and ask
- Says words like “I,” “me,” or “we”
Cognitive Milestones
- Uses things to pretend (e.g., feeding a block to a doll)
- Shows simple problem‑solving skills (e.g., uses a stool)
- Follows two‑step instructions
- Knows at least one color
Movement/Physical Development
- Uses hands to twist things
- Takes some clothes off by himself
- Jumps off the ground with both feet
- Turns book pages one at a time
Help Your Child Learn and Grow
As your child’s first teacher, you can help his or her learning and brain development. Try these simple tips and activities in a safe way. Talk with your child’s doctor and teachers if you have questions or for more ideas on how to help your child’s development.
Encourage “free play”: let your child follow interests and try new things.
Use positive words: give more attention to wanted behaviors (e.g., “I like how you shared the toy”).
Give simple, healthy choices: offer 2–3 options (snacks, clothes).
Ask simple questions about books: “Who?”, “What?”, “Where?”.
Help your child play with others: practice sharing, turn‑taking, and using words.
Let your child draw: start with lines; when ready, practice circles.
Provide play opportunities with other children: parks, library, local play groups.
Eat family meals together: same meal for everyone; avoid screens.
Limit screen time: ≤ 1 hour/day of children’s programming with an adult present.
Use describing words: big/small, fast/slow, on/off, in/out.
Do simple puzzles: shapes, colors, or animals; name each piece together.
Play outside: climb and run in safe areas (e.g., park).
Let your child decide how much to eat: you provide healthy options; they choose how much.
When to Be Concerned
It’s time for developmental screening
At 30 months, your child is due for general developmental screening as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Ask the doctor about your child’s developmental screening.
Other important things to share with the doctor:
- What are some things you and your child do together?
- What are some things your child likes to do?
- Is there anything your child does or does not do that concerns you?
- Has your child lost any skills he/she once had?
- Does your child have any special healthcare needs or was he/she born prematurely?
If you’re concerned: 1) Ask for a referral to a specialist; 2) Call your state or territory’s early intervention program (cited by CDC) to find out about services.
Download Your 30‑Month Milestone Checklist
Free Milestone Checklist
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