Growth & Development

Your Toddler

Likes to play with other children.

Removes clothing such as coat, shoes, pants, shirt.

Begins to use words to make his/her wants known.

Points to a few body parts.

Understands simple one step directions.

Stand up and sit down without holding on to objects.

Begins to eat with a fork.

Walks proficiently.

Walks backwards for short distances.

Runs awkwardly and falls a lot.

Speaks from 3-50 words.

May use few two word combinations.

Often does the opposite of what s/he is asked to do.

Copies simple tasks such as reading a book.

Your toddler is beginning to exercise his/her newly found independence.

S/he wants things quickly and becomes frustrated if that doesn’t happen.

Understands that something can exist even when hidden.

Can picture events and objects mentally.

Take your child to his/her doctor or nurse for his/her 18-month well-child checkup.

If your child has all the required shots, no more are needed until kindergarten.

Keep his/her immunization record in a safe place.

Don’t pretend that medicine or vitamins are candy.

Know that you baby can get into many things and places, toddler proof inside and outside.

Wash toddler’s hands well before eating.

Brush teeth daily, toothpaste may be needed, check with Dentist.

Try to have meals and snacks at or around the same time every day.

Avoid serving snacks too close to your child’s mealtimes.

Your child’s food likes and dislikes can change from day to day at this age.

Offer a wide variety of foods and let your child chose.

Give your child lots of hugs and kisses and encourage him/her to give you hugs and kisses.

Help your child pick up toys and put them away.

Teach your child how to set a table and do simple chores.

Let your child play with other children.

Blow bubbles with your child.

Play games with your child such as tag or hide-and-go-seek.

Read to your child.

Your child will need help in playing with others, but enjoys being with other children.

Information adapted from the following Resources:

Iowa Early ACCESS Developmental Wheel- Developed with IDEA
Ohio Department of Health website (www.ohiohelpmegrow.org)
Normal Development articles written by Donna Warner Manczak, Ph.D.,M.P.H. and Robert Brayden, M.D. Published by McKesson Health Solutions LLC
Extension website – Family/Parenting resources (www.extension.org/parenting)