Understanding a Child Who is Two Years Old

All children develop at different paces. The following general overview covering different situations in the development of a child will help you select toys, games and unique gifts suitable for a two year old.

Educational Development

I am becoming a “little child.” The best way to describe me is “Me, me, me!” I am definitely the centre of my own little world, but progressively learning social skills. I can concentrate better now, so I can play with more intricate toys than I could in the past.

Little Helper

I like to get involved with the things you adults do. I also like to use the skills I have learned so far, so let me get involved and experience for myself simple things like sweeping up, cooking and gardening. We can chat about things along the way.

Independence

My self-care skills are starting to kick in, but they are very basic and this really is a long-term joint project. This involves developing skills for independence, such as getting the hang of dressing, undressing and personal hygiene. It may take me a while yet, but I promise that time spent now in helping me is well worth it in the long run.

Family Time

I am starting to talk pretty well now. I love playing with siblings and friends, but I also like to play with you adults as well. I am starting to play interactive games, but am still learning about taking turns and the general rules of family games. It is difficult for me to sit down for any length of time.

I am picking up and learning about words, sentence structure and language. I do this through relaxed one-to-one interactions with you, and through you reading and talking about general objects and day-to-day things, such as the weather. I learn by talking about the things that grab my attention.

Let off Steam

It might look like I can't concentrate because I can't sit down. I can concentrate, but I have to do this while on the move. I love being outdoors, and I love being active with things that help me move, like tricycles, pull-alongs and construction toys.

Free Play

My imagination is starting to develop, so “pretend play” is becoming more important. Providing me with soft toys, dressing-up clothes and dolls are great for fuelling my imagination.

Creative Corner

I like creative play materials. They help me practice physical skills and develop hand-eye co-ordination that I will use later when I learn about handwriting.

Find out more about Christmas Gifts for 2 Year Olds