Now that they can run, children do not want to stop! Many children still only run in straight lines, and find it hard to stop. Others are beginning to run with more control, and can change direction without stopping. Their improved coordination also allows them to kick a ball that is rolling towards them.

Their games are more symbolic – including dolls, boxes, and toy cars to recreate a scene or adventure they have imagined.

They can build increasingly sophisticated structures. For instance, at this age, many children can make towers of 4 to 6 blocks, or replicate other things you’ve demonstrated building with blocks. All of this is thanks to the development of both fine motor skills and cognition.

They are interested in being with other children, but still find it hard to share. Their sense of “mine” is much stronger than that of “yours.” They still display egocentric behavior focused on their own needs and desires.

If you allow them to, they can independently complete many of their daily grooming and feeding activities. They can feed themselves a variety of meals with utensils. They may also undress themselves almost completely and wash their hands with minimal help from you.