Toddler
During the second year, toddlers are moving around more, and are aware of themselves and their surroundings. Their desire to explore new objects and people is also increasing.
During this stage, toddlers will show greater independence, recognize themselves in pictures or a mirror, and imitate the behavior of others, especially adults and older children. Toddlers also should be able to recognize the names of familiar people and objects, form simple phrases and sentences, and follow basic instructions and directions.
This is also a stage where parents can feel frustrated by a toddlers behaviors. There are a variety of strategies than can help parents navigate this time, such as keeping a schedule and offering encouragement. Children behave better when they know what to expect and hear confidence-building encouraging words.
Each child will develop at his or her own rate. Developmental milestones are a measure of what a child should be doing at what age.
Health care providers, daycare staff, and home visitors can help you monitor your child’s development and identify any concerns. Treating issues early can help prevent more serious problems later.
Health Care Provider Visits
Regular visits to your child’s health care provider are an essential part of ensuring your toddler’s health and development. During these years your toddler is on the move learning to walk, run, talk, and play. Your child’s provider will be working with you to set appointments at intervals throughout the year to check growth and behavioral development by physical examinations and talking with you about your child’s nutrition, sleep, and advancements or delays toward developmental milestones.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, it’s important you contact your child’s health care provider right away. Many providers have nursing staff who can answer questions over the phone or schedule you for a visit to see if any screening tests or connection to other resources are necessary.
If you are in need of pediatric care services, contact your local county health department or view additional resources for assistance.
Growing Healthy Babies
Nutrition
At this age, children often become picky eaters and may lose interest in food. You may find that some days, your child might not be interested in food at all, and other days, he might only want to eat a certain type of food.
Be assured, when your child is hungry, he will want to eat. It is your job to ensure you are providing healthy options by offering a variety of healthy foods.
Sleep
Most toddlers sleep about 14 hours a day. They often take one nap a day, usually from about 1 to 3 p.m., and go to bed between 6 and 8 p.m. It is still important to sleep during the day.
If children are well rested, they fall asleep easier and sleep longer during the night.
Safety
Because your child is exploring the world and moving around more, he may come across more opportunities for perilous encounters.
Dangerous situations can happen quickly, so learn more about ways to keep your toddler safe and happy.
Oral Health
To avoid tooth decay and develop the foundation of good oral health, give your child water and plain milk instead of sugary drinks and make sure they brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Physical Activity
Toddlers should play actively each day. Active play includes: running, skipping, climbing, hopping, jumping, throwing a ball, and dancing.
Potty Training
Potty training is something that you do with your child. You are helping your child learn a very important skill. Teaching your child to use the toilet takes time, understanding, and patience. Most children are ready sometime between 18 and 36 months, but it’s also normal for it to occur a little later.
