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From 18 to 36 months, your child:

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  • Uses 2 or 3-word sentences

  • Asks for help using words or actions

  • Can count and use new words

  • Understands shapes and sizes

  • Shows emotions and has mood swings or tantrums

  • Knows and responds to others' feelings

  • Wants approval and needs praise

  • Asks a lot of questions

  • Responds to requests, such as 'Get your coat'

  • Gradually uses 1 hand more than the other

  • Can walk up and down stairs

  • Can learn to ride a tricycle

  • Can run, climb, kick, and throw a ball

  • Dances to music

  • Tells stories, sings songs, and plays

  • Tries to do more independently

  • Helps with simple household chores, such as taking laundry out of the dryer

  • Has trouble sharing and says 'no' or 'mine'

  • Becomes familiar with routines

  • Recognizes and names familiar people

  • Shows interest in a new person, thing, or sound

  • Enjoys playing alone and near other children

  • By 36 months, enjoys pretend play with others

  • Shows an increased attention span

  • Solves problems by trial and error

  • Participates in group activities

  • Shows affection openly, such as hugging

  • Uses social language, such as please and thank you

  • Copies adult behaviours

  • Gets frustrated sometimes because they want to do more than they are able to do

  • Tries to be the boss but needs to know that parents set limits

  • Has a lot of fears and may have nightmares

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