During the second year of life, babies who have not started walking generally do so around age 15 months. At first, toddlers typically move their legs wide apart and appear to hesitate between steps, jerking or swaying from side to side as they put one foot forward, then the next.

About six months after taking the first steps, toddlers develop a more adult-like walk – holding their hands at their sides, as opposed to the front for balance, and moving with their feet closer together. They also move their feet from the heel to the toe when walking.

Children frequently fall as they learn to walk. Parents can reduce risk of injury to their toddlers by having them walk on soft carpeted surfaces and removing or covering objects or furniture with sharp edges.

As children begin to walk more steadily, they usually enjoy taking on new challenges such as picking up, carrying and throwing objects, moving while pulling a toy behind them and climbing stairs. Most children can run, jump in place, stand on tiptoes as well as kick and throw a ball overhand by age 2.

Around this time, toddlers are often able to climb onto and down from furniture without assistance. They can also scribble, build a tower of four or more blocks and turn over containers to pour out contents.

By age 3, toddlers have achieved greater balance. They can balance on one foot for brief periods and are able to walk up stairs with alternating feet and pedal a tricycle. They can also bend over easily without falling.

Fine motor skills associated with this stage include being able to turn pages one page at a time, as well as turning doorknobs and pushing small objects through small holes. To promote safety, any household rooms that are not childproof should be kept locked at all times. To prevent poisoning, all household cleaners, chemicals and medications should be stored out of a toddler’s reach.

By their fourth birthday, most children are able to feed themselves without difficulty and dress without assistance. However, they may need help with shoelaces, buttons and zippers.

They continue showing improved balance and more agility. They can now hop on one foot without losing balance for longer periods. By age 4, children are able to throw a ball overhand with improved coordination and can catch a bounced ball most of the time.