Navigating the journey of parenthood with your 28-30 month old toddler can be both exhilarating and challenging. While you may still be in the throes of the “terrible twos,” you’ll also notice your little one blossoming into an enthusiastic helper—when they aren’t asserting their independence, of course. With this age comes a whirlwind of activity and discovery, which can leave you feeling amazed by their progress.
Wondering what milestones to expect during this stage? Here’s a look at the physical, social, and cognitive developments you may observe in your 28- to 30-month-old.
Weight and Nutrition for Your Toddler
How much does a toddler at this age weigh? Your child is likely gaining weight slowly but steadily. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, typical weight ranges are about 28.1 to 28.8 pounds for girls and 29.3 to 29.9 pounds for boys at 28 to 30 months.
In terms of diet, your little one might still be a picky eater, but self-feeding is probably becoming second nature. Expect them to use utensils, even if it’s not always tidy. They should be eating three meals and two snacks daily, consisting of a variety of foods from all food groups, with portions about a quarter to half of adult servings. You can transition them to skim or 1 percent milk to ensure they receive enough calcium without excess sugar and fat.
Sleep Requirements
Sleep plays a crucial role in your toddler’s brain development and mood stability. At this age, they should be getting around 11 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep, along with 1.5 to 3 hours of daytime napping—totaling 13 to 14 hours daily. If your toddler resists naps, consider implementing quiet time in the afternoon. If they still refuse, you might need to adjust their bedtime or wake-up time.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
What physical activities should you expect from your toddler? They are likely walking, running, and navigating stairs like a pro. Your energetic toddler can kick and throw a ball, jump, and stack blocks, keeping you on your toes.
In terms of language, your child is at the “sponge” stage, soaking up words daily. They may be able to say between 100 to 250 words, follow simple multi-step directions, and understand enough to help you with tasks. Remember, every child develops at their own pace, so if you have concerns about your toddler’s language skills, don’t hesitate to discuss it with their pediatrician.
Behaviorally, your toddler may be displaying some willful defiance. It’s a common stage where what you want them to do clashes with what they want. While this can lead to some challenging moments, keep in mind that tantrums typically peak between 17 and 24 months, and you might see improvements soon.
Potty Training Considerations
When it comes to potty training, readiness varies greatly. While some toddlers may be fully potty trained by this age, others might not show much interest yet. Generally, success with potty training occurs between 27 and 32 months, so if your child is curious, encourage them with practice and supportive resources. You can also check out this helpful guide on donor insemination for more insights on parenting topics.
Health Checkups
Is it time for a checkup? Yes! At 30 months, a pediatric visit is essential to assess your toddler’s growth and development. Expect routine measurements and screenings to monitor for any developmental delays. This is also a great opportunity for you to discuss any concerns you may have.
Immunizations
You might also want to consider scheduling your toddler’s annual flu vaccine during this time.
In summary, your 28-30 month old toddler is at a vibrant stage of growth. With their developing physical abilities, curiosity about language, and emerging independence, this time can be both rewarding and demanding. Keep supporting their growth with balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular health check-ups, and you’ll both navigate this exciting milestone together.