Answer the third why too
Short honest answers, and "let us find out" when you do not know, keep curiosity alive.
21-24 months
Stories, systems and why
Pretend play becomes a story with a beginning and an end, and your toddler starts explaining the world back to you.
Signs you may notice
- Acts out a short story with toys
- Asks what and where constantly
- Completes simple puzzles alone
- Strong preferences about clothes and food
Parenting guidance
Let the story go wrong
If the elephant drives the bus, ride along. Following their idea builds language faster than correcting it.
Play ideas for this jump
Small world play
A tray, a few figures and one prop. Let your toddler set the scene and narrate it.
Sequencing cards
Put three pictures of a routine in order and tell it as a story together.