23 Month Old Baby

Your 23-month-old: naming things, two-step instructions and potty readiness.
Average weight at 23 monthsGirls 11.3 kg (24.8 lb)
Boys 12.0 kg (26.3 lb)
Average length at 23 monthsGirls 85.5 cm (33.7 in)
Boys 86.9 cm (34.2 in)

50th percentile (median) on the WHO Child Growth Standards. Healthy babies vary widely around these numbers.

Development at 23 months

Your toddler names many familiar things and may show early signs of readiness for potty training, such as noticing when their nappy is wet.

What you might notice

  • Names familiar objects and people
  • Follows two-step instructions
  • May show interest in the potty
  • Copies adults more and more
  • Plays simple pretend games

Feeding

Offer three meals and two or three healthy snacks a day, eating together as a family when you can. The AAP suggests about 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 oz) of milk a day for toddlers, and no juice is needed. Keep offering new foods: it can take many tries before a child accepts one.

Sleep

Toddlers usually need 11 to 14 hours of sleep in 24 hours, including one nap. A regular bedtime and a calm routine help.

Your checklist this month

  • Look for signs of potty readiness, but do not rush: every child is ready at their own time.
  • Plan the 24-month check-up.
  • Keep a consistent daily routine.

Is your baby growing well?

Check weight, length and head size on WHO charts with our Baby Growth Percentile Calculator, or work out your baby’s exact age with the Baby Age Calculator.

When to get medical help

  • A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher in a baby under 3 months
  • Breathing that is fast, noisy or hard work
  • Fewer wet nappies than usual or refusing feeds
  • Unusually sleepy, floppy or hard to wake
  • A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
  • Repeated vomiting, or green vomit

In an emergency, call your local emergency number.

Based on WHO and CDC guidance. Every baby develops at their own pace.