What to Expect from Toddlers Ages 1-2
Toddlers between 1 and 2 years old are just beginning to notice other children. At this age, they often play next to other kids (called “parallel play”) instead of playing with them. This is normal! Your child is learning about others by watching them.
Most toddlers this age:
- Do not understand sharing yet
- May grab toys from others
- Might get upset when someone takes their toys
- Need help learning how to play with friends
Why Social Skills Matter
Learning to get along with others helps your child:
- Feel good about themselves
- Make friends later
- Solve problems without fighting
- Feel less shy in new places
Simple Ways to Help Your Toddler Socialize
1. Set Up Playdates
Short playdates (30-45 minutes) work best. Have plenty of toys so kids don’t need to share everything.
2. Go to Places with Other Children
Try:
- Parks
- Library story times
- Parent-child classes
- Playground visits
3. Show Them How to Share
You can say: “I’m sharing my snack with you. Would you like to share your block with me? Thank you for sharing!”
4. Use Simple Words
Teach words like:
- “My turn”
- “Your turn”
- “Please”
- “Thank you”
- “Can I play?”
5. Practice Taking Turns
Play simple turn-taking games like rolling a ball back and forth.
When Sharing is Hard
When your toddler won’t share:
- Stay calm
- Use simple words: “Sam is playing with the truck now. You can have a turn next.”
- Offer another toy
- Set a timer for turns with favorite toys
- Praise them when they do share: “I like how you gave Emma a turn!”
What Not to Do
- Don’t force sharing. Toddlers aren’t ready to understand sharing fully.
- Don’t punish for not sharing. They’re still learning.
- Don’t be embarrassed when your child doesn’t share. All toddlers are learning this skill.
When to Expect More Sharing
Most children begin to understand sharing better around age 3-4. Be patient and keep practicing!
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Social Development: 1-2 Years. HealthyChildren.org.
- Zero to Three. (2021). Developing Social Skills in Toddlers. zerotothree.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Important Milestones: Your Child By Two Years. cdc.gov.
- Gerber, M., & Johnson, A. (2012). Your Self-Confident Baby: How to Encourage Your Child’s Natural Abilities From the Very Start. John Wiley & Sons.
- Lerner, C., & Dombro, A. L. (2019). Sharing and Turn-Taking. Zero to Three.
