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Toddler

Development in month 21

Development month by month — what your baby is learning now, what to watch, and how to support.

Motor milestones

  • Walks on tiptoe
  • Climbs stairs alone with rail
  • Pulls zippers
  • Eats with fork

Cognitive milestones

  • Solves simple problems (put lid on)
  • Imitates counting to 3
  • Understands bigger/smaller, more/less

Social and emotional milestones

  • Parallel play becomes joint play
  • Proud of achievement
  • More frequent tantrums

Language milestones

  • 100–150 words active
  • Uses own name

Red flags — when to see the paediatrician?

  • No two-word sentences
  • No vocabulary growth
  • Loses previously learned words
  • Fewer than 30 words

Activity ideas

  • Potty training (if ready)
  • More complex puzzles (10–15 pieces)
  • Songs with dance
  • Imitate animal sounds

Common concerns and tips

Potty training is individual — readiness signs: stays dry for 2 hours, shows interest in toilet, communicates when nappy is full.

Development varies. This information is based on WHO and CDC milestones but does not replace paediatric assessment. If in doubt, consult your paediatrician.

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