Your 22-month-old is bursting with curiosity and energy.
Your toddler’s 22-month-old developmental milestones bring something new each day. A new word, a new skill, or even a new expression of independence.
At this stage, toddlers are refining what they already know while bravely exploring new ways to connect, communicate and move.
This is a lively, imaginative age where everything is a chance to learn.
Here’s what you need to know about your toddler’s 22-month-old developmental milestones.
Physical and Motor Milestones
Climbing Higher, Moving Faster
Your toddler’s movements are now quicker, smoother and more deliberate. Expect a lot of climbing on chairs, stairs, and sometimes anything within reach!
Their balance is improving too, helping them move more confidently and safely.
This means they might start running with fewer falls and can change direction while walking without toppling over.
Encourage their progress with gentle play outdoors or at soft play areas, where they can safely test their strength and coordination.
Dancing, Kicking, and Catching
At this age, your toddler might start moving to music or joining in when you sing and dance.
Their legs are stronger, so they’ll enjoy kicking a soft ball or trying to catch one (even if it bounces away more often than not).
Dancing helps develop rhythm and coordination, while ball play improves timing and balance. These simple games not only strengthen muscles but also build confidence in physical control.
Communication and Cognitive Development
Combining Words and Ideas
By 22 months, language development accelerates noticeably.
Many toddlers have a vocabulary of around 100 words or more, though this can vary widely.
They may start combining two or three words — “want more milk” or “Daddy, read book!” It’s an exciting sign of growing cognitive ability and understanding of cause and effect.
Encourage their progress by talking often, describing what you’re doing, and repeating words clearly.
Curiosity and Problem Solving
Your toddler is now an active little thinker. They observe carefully and imitate everything from how you stir a cup of tea to how you put away the laundry.
They also start to understand simple concepts like “in”, “under”, and “on top”. Try providing basic puzzles or shape sorters — these are excellent for sharpening their reasoning and concentration.
You’ll likely see moments of pride when they “figure it out” on their own.
Social and Emotional Development
Early Empathy and Big Feelings
Toddlers at 22 months are starting to show genuine empathy. They might pat your back when you cough or offer a favourite toy when someone is sad.
Alongside this growing awareness come stronger emotions – frustration, excitement, and affection, sometimes all in one minute.
They still need help managing these feelings, so calm reassurance and consistent routines are your best tools for support.
Parallel Play and Shared Smiles
At this age, your toddler enjoys being around other children, though they may still prefer playing side by side rather than together.
This is known as parallel play, and it’s a healthy step toward social interaction.
You might notice them watching other kids closely, copying their actions or offering a toy momentarily.
Playdates and group activities are wonderful opportunities to nurture these early social skills, even if sharing still sparks a few squabbles.
Sensory and Perceptual Development
Exploring Textures and Sounds
Sensory play becomes more sophisticated at this stage.
Your toddler might love squishing playdough, pouring water, or running their fingers through sand.
They’re learning through touch, sound and sight, and these activities strengthen neural connections that support later learning.
Singing songs with rhythm and hand movements enhances both sensory awareness and language development.
Recognising Patterns and Details
Their eyes and ears are becoming keener. They can now spot familiar people and objects from across the room, point out details in books, and recognise repeated melodies.
Simple games like “find the red ball” or “where’s the cat?” strengthen observation and recall skills. These moments of recognition are small triumphs that boost confidence and memory.
When to Talk to A Paediatrician
Every toddler develops at their own pace, but it’s best to check with your paediatrician if your 22-month-old:
- isn’t walking steadily
- doesn’t use gestures or simple words
- shows little interest in playing
- avoids eye contact.
- lost previously learnt skills or don’t respond to familiar voices.
Early guidance during their 22-month-old developmental milestones ensures your child’s development stays on track.
Expert Tips & Daily Activities
Encourage Choice and Independence
Offer small choices throughout the day, like “blue cup or green cup?” or “read a book or play blocks?”
This nurtures independence while keeping things manageable.
Toddlers love feeling in control — and these small decisions help reduce tantrums by giving them a sense of agency.
Sing, Read, and Move Together
Make daily routines interactive. Sing songs while brushing teeth, count steps as you climb the stairs, or name body parts during dressing time.
Reading picture books every day exposes them to new words and ideas, while dancing or chasing bubbles together strengthens your bond and keeps learning fun.
Little Steps Toward Big Discoveries
Your 22-month-old is blossoming into a confident, curious explorer. Their world is full of things to climb, words to master, and emotions to express.
They’re discovering not just how things work, but how they work within their growing world.
As they reach their 22-month-old developmental milestones, be sure to offer lots of patience and guidance.
Celebrate small achievements, and remember that these tiny steps are building the foundation for big adventures ahead.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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