Between the ages of one and two years, most children will begin to talk, walk, and show increasing independence. As your child’s teacher and most important role model, you have the wonderful opportunity to help your child with his or her physical, emotional, and cognitive (mental) development.
1. The beginning toddler stage is one of the most important periods in a child’s development. Each child develops at his own rate and will become much more independent. Your child will begin to move about freely, will begin to understand many new concepts, and to develop important language skills. 2. “No!” The word “no” is likely to become one of the most frequently used words by the time your child turns two. Between the age of one and two, your child will more than likely begin to express needs and wants. Although this can be frustrating, your child’s ability to express himself is a significant stage in his overall language development. 3. Your toddler’s need to be independent usually doesn’t match his skills. Although your child has a strong desire to learn, he will only begin to use language and motor skills and is likely to become frustrated. Although toddlers show this need for independence, they are still very dependent. Their drive requires you as a parent to balance independence with discipline and appropriate structure. 4. Between the ages of one and two, your child will continue to require a great deal of guidance and structure. Because your child’s needs are complex, it is important to understand his social, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. 5. One year olds will typically begin to walk before the age of fourteen months and will begin to show an interest in climbing. Young toddlers like to feed themselves and eat snacks and small meals during the day. Your toddler will enjoy sipping from a cup, stacking toys, and scribbling. 6. Most toddlers will want to try new things. Temper tantrums may become more frequent. For short periods of time, one year olds may want to play independently. At this stage they may play next to other children without any real interaction. 7. Young toddlers will have difficulty remembering rules and sharing. At this stage, your baby believes that the world revolves around him. Toddlers typically show increased fears and new emotions. Attachment to parents is strong and routines help your child gain a sense of security. 8. One year olds are active and curious. As language develops, toddlers begin to name objects and point toward people and items of interest. Your child may begin to use pronouns (“mine”), speak in short phrases, and imitate sounds. Your toddler will usually have a fairly short attention span. 9. One to two year olds have difficulty knowing what is real and what is make believe. Your child may begin to grasp crayons and scribble. He’ll begin to play and use objects correctly. 10. Children during this stage of development enjoy building with blocks, fitting objects together, filling containers, pulling and pushing toys, and riding on plastic wheeled scooters. Most toddlers love music, dance, and movement. They enjoy looking at themselves in mirrors. It’s also a wonderful time to read books with bright pictures and play with language. Use concept words, such as in-out, up-down, off-on, over-under, etc. Compare the size, shape, and texture of objects, while making learning enjoyable, relaxed, and interactive.
Try to see the world through the eyes of your child. What an amazing and magical time this is in your child’s life! The challenges of parenting during this phase will be surpassed by the rewards. Enjoy your child’s accomplishments and try to keep a sense of humor!