Milestones by Age One

• smiles spontaneously
• responds differently to strangers than to familiar people
• pays attention to own name
• responds to no
• copies simple actions of others

Milestones for One and Two

• recognizes self in mirror or picture
• refers to self by name
• plays by self; initiates own play
• imitates adult behaviors in play
• helps put things away

Milestones for Two and Three

• plays near other children
• watches other children; joins briefly in their play
• defends own possessions
• begins to play house
• symbolically uses objects, self in play
• participates in simple group activity
• knows gender identity

Milestones for Three and Four

• joins in play with other children; begins to interact
• shares toys; takes turns with assistance
• begins dramatic play, acting out whole scenes

Milestones for Four and Five

• plays and interacts with other children
• dramatic play is closer to reality, with attention paid to detail, time,
  and space
• plays dress-up
• shows interest in exploring sex differences

Milestones for Five and Six

• chooses own friends
• plays simple table games
• plays competitive games
• engages in cooperative play with other children involving group decisions, role assignments, fair play