Toddler Age 2
Growth & Development: Watch Me, Mommy!
New Independence…
By age two, your toddler is probably increasingly independent and doing things for themselves, like picking up their toys, washing their hands and brushing their teeth without help. Some parents refer to this stage as "the terrible twos" because your toddler has begun to take more risks and assert an independent spirit.
They're walking on their own and getting better at running and jumping. They are also slimming down as your toddler's limbs and torso lengthen. Your toddler's head is growing more slowly, so his/her proportions are starting to resemble those of an adult.1
Improved Communication Skills…
Your toddler is also talking more, and may have 50 words or more in his/her vocabulary. They can put together simple two-word sentences, but don't worry if you can only understand them about half the time. They may not have the hang of pronouns yet, so you may notice he/she avoids them completely.1
Still Uncertain…
While their new found independence may make your little one easier to care for, it can also be unpredictable. They may test your limits one minute, and want to cling to you for comfort the next. Give him/her attention and reassurance when they need it without going overboard; anxiety from being away from you will likely fade in the next few months.1
Good Advice for Mom
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Don't worry if your little one is still sucking their thumb. The American Dental Association (ADA) says it won't damage teeth or jaw alignment until permanent teeth appear, which is usually around age six. Try to wait them out; most children give up the habit when they find they can comfort themselves with snacks or naps.2
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Check with the pharmacist before crushing medicine. Sometimes crushed medicine tablets make them easier for your child to swallow, but it's a good idea to check with the pharmacist first. The protective coating may be there to prevent stomach irritation or make sure the medication does what it's supposed to do.3
Toddler Age 3
Growth & Development: Can I Help?
Time to Pretend...
Your toddler is growing up right before your eyes. They're probably able to leave you without getting too anxious, and adjusts to new situations like preschool more easily. They're starting to create ways to entertain themselves, such as boys playing fireman or girls pretending to be the mommy to their dolls. They may love to help you with chores and are pretty good at following instructions when it's time to put away their toys or wash their hands for dinner.4
Improved Communication Skills...
Your toddler may show some understanding of the alphabet and the idea that letters form words and stories. As he/she approaches their fourth year, they'll probably be solving problems such as asking a friend to trade toys so they can each have a turn.
Good Advice for Mom
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Ask your child questions. The best way to know your child has an earache is him/her telling you - just ask. But if they can't talk clearly yet, there are other clues. If they pull or tug at their ear, have a fever, have fluid draining from the ear, are fussy, are eating less, have an upset stomach, have diarrhea, start waking in the night or crying in their sleep, call your doctor. A pesky ear infection may be to blame.5
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Be aware of your child's developing identity. Are you imagining things, or did you hear your child bossing his/her toys around, congratulating themselves on behaving well and talking to an imaginary friend? If they're a normal three-year-old, you heard right. This "self-talk" is your child's way of gaining self-control and thinking about their place in the world, and is quite healthy.6
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Make language and reading development fun. Your toddler is just starting to learn the alphabet and recognize words. To help them along, it can be fun to point out everyday words like the letters on a stop sign or the logo on a favorite store. Give them a subscription to a children's magazine to give them something new to read on a regular basis. They'll also love getting their own mail!7
Nursery
Nursery