›› Toddler

Toddlers are developing rapidly in many ways. They are able to walk and use words. They may understand some very complex communications and instructions. Toddlers love routine and rules. These things give their chaotic lives structure and predictability. In fact, once a 'rule' is broken it is common for a toddler to fall apart.

Trying to make order out of chaos can lead to frustration. Toddler frustration is often expressed through temper tantrums. When parents understand that the tantrum is an expression of frustration, it is easier for them to respond with empathy. It is more effective to ignore a temper tantrum than to try to correct the problem or punish the child. Make sure he can't hurt himself, other people, pets, or possessions, and wait for the tantrum to be over. Paying attention to good behavior will encourage more good behavior in the future. Calmly ignoring lapses in behavior, or if possible, preventing misbehaviors from occurring, will allow the child to stop them.

Toilet training is another important skill for toddlers to learn. Most girls can use the bathroom at around 2 years of age, while many boys won't show an interest until around 3 years of age. Parents can help their toddlers achieve the toilet trained state by encouraging and modeling this behavior. But for better or worse, being toilet trained is something children must accomplish on their own when they are ready. Parents can tell when a child is ready to attempt toilet training if he/she can do the following:

If those skills can be accomplished, then the child should be ready to toilet train. The true magic formula is time and patience. Very few children go to kindergarten wearing diapers.

Toddlers learn most of their skills and behaviors through imitation. Model the behavior you want to see from your child, and you will be proud of your blossoming young person.

Helpful links

Below is a list of links that may be useful in the care and parenting of toddlers.