When do toddlers run?
The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Runs” by 2 years, along with “Kicks a ball” and walking up a few stairs. That means most children (75% or more) run by their second birthday, and many run sooner. Before that, by 18 months, the CDC lists walking without holding on. Worried? Talk with your pediatrician.
Checked October 29, 2026.
What the CDC's checklists say
| By | The CDC's milestone | Month page |
|---|---|---|
| 18 months | Walks without holding on to anyone or anything | Your toddler at 18 months |
| 2 years | Runs | Your toddler at 24 months |
Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (18 months, 2 years), checked October 29, 2026.
What “by 2 years” means
Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 2 years” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.
What it can look like
A fast, stiff walk at first, then real running, with plenty of tumbles.
What helps
- Play chase in the yard or park. Let them catch you.
- Run-and-stop games: "Run, run... stop!"
- Grass and soft ground make falls easier.
Talk to your pediatrician if…
Your child isn't doing this by 2 years, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.
You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.
If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.
More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.
Sources
- CDC, Milestones by 18 months (Learn the Signs. Act Early.) (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC, Milestones by 2 years (Learn the Signs. Act Early.) (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC, Key Points about CDC's Developmental Milestone Checklists (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC, CDC's Developmental Milestones: Concerned about your child's development? Act early. (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC, Concerned About Your Child's Development? (checked October 29, 2026)