Is It Normal My Toddler Cannot Problem Solve Yet?

Watching your toddler puzzle over a stacking cup or a closed box is one of the quiet joys of these years — and yes, learning to solve problems takes time.

In short

For most toddlers between 12 and 36 months, problem-solving is still very much under construction — and that is completely normal. At this age, working out how to reach a toy, fit a shape into a sorter, or open a container develops gradually, in small steps, with lots of practice and plenty of "failed" attempts in between. This is not a reason to worry; it is exactly how thinking skills are built. A developmental check is wise only if you notice your child rarely tries to solve everyday challenges and there are delays in talking, play or connecting with others.

What to watch at 12–36 months

Problem-solving grows alongside play, language and curiosity — so it rarely develops on its own clock. Gentle signs that a clinician's calm look is worthwhile:

• Little trial and error — by around 18–24 months, most toddlers will experiment to reach a goal (pulling a string to get a toy, turning a cup over). Very little of this kind of trying deserves a check.
• No interest in cause and effect — not exploring how things open, stack, fit or pour by around two years.
• Travelling with other differences — few or no words, not pointing, little pretend play, not responding to their name, or limited eye contact.
• Loss of a skill — something your child could once do that has faded.

Remember: one skill alone rarely tells the story. It is the pattern across talking, playing and connecting that matters — and that is something a clinician, not a checklist, can read.

When to act

If your toddler shows little curiosity about solving everyday challenges and you see delays in language or social connection, arrange a developmental check now rather than waiting. Early support at this age works beautifully — what you notice every day is valuable.

The Pinnacle way

A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — never from an online list. Our clinicians watch how your child explores, plays and thinks, and build support around play. You can read more about how problem solving develops, and our occupational therapy team helps nurture flexible, curious thinking.

Trusted sources

CDC developmental milestones and "Learn the Signs, Act Early" guidance on toddler cognition; American Academy of Pediatrics (healthychildren.org) on early thinking and play; WHO Nurturing Care framework on responsive early learning.

Next step — Trust what you've noticed. Book a developmental assessment for a calm, clear review of your toddler's thinking and play milestones.

This is general information, not a diagnosis — a clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care.