Most children will pass a set of predictable milestones as they get older.
Progress can differ by weeks or even months among children of the same age. Every child is unique and will accomplish milestones in their own way.
These pages will help you to understand the development milestones you should be looking out for in your child as they get ready to enter a childcare setting at 2 years old and reception at 4 years old.
See milestones for:
A more detailed set of milestones for 0 to 5 year olds can be found on Foundation Years website.
The first years of a child’s life are key to development, emotionally and intellectually. Over 80% of your child’s brain is formed by age 3.
Playing and talking with your baby or toddler sparks millions of new brain connections. If you would like to find out more about how your child’s brain develops from the earliest months, see our baby development page.
If you have any concerns or worries about your child’s development, we offer help and guidance on our support for your child's development page.
Grow through play pack for parents and professionals
Play is important to a child’s development. It’s how they learn about themselves and the world. Our ‘Grow through play' pack contains simple and fun play ideas to do with your pre-schooler.