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Growth & DevelopmentMONTH 24 - What's Going On This Month?Your ToddlerYour toddler is still working on doing things for him/herself and wants very much to please adults. Your toddler may point to body parts on him/herself or a doll; talk in two- and three-word sentences; help to dress and undress him/herself; point to and name pictures of familiar objects; kick a ball forward; throw a ball overhand; and walk up and down stairs alone. Because toddlers love to imitate, you can let him/her help around the house with simple household tasks, such as wiping up spills. May have difficulty settling down for bedtime. Can walk, run, and climb without help. Puts two and three words together to make simple sentences. Will use about 50 words frequently. Will use 2 to 4 word phrases. Develops greater independence in toileting needs (still needs some assistance) Begins to walk on tiptoe. Get upset when daily routine changes. Revert to baby behavior at times. Become more interested in brothers and sisters. Know gender. Begins to button and unbutton large buttons. Shows anger by crying or striking out. May scratch, hit, bite, and push other children. Caring For Your ChildRemember to take your toddler to his/her well-child visit. Make sure your baby’s shots are up to date. Schedule an appointment for your child with a dentist. Your child may be ready to start toilet training. Help your child wash his/her hands before eating and after going to the potty. Talk to your child everyday about things and help him/her learn new words. NutritionAt mealtime have your child taste each food. Never force him/her to eat everything on his/her plate. A rule of thumb for serving sizes: “one tablespoon of food for each year of life.” So if your child is 2 years old, a serving is two tablespoons. Provide him/her with three small, balanced meals and healthy snacks each day. Growth and Development ActivitiesGive your child directions to follow. Give your child simple puzzles to put together. Play with clay with your child. Teach your child to jump and stand on one foot. Play music for your child to dance to, and dance with your child. Teach your child to button, zipper and snap. Let your child try to dress him/herself. Read to your child, let your child hold the book and turn the pages. Help your child name feelings when they happen. When your child is worried, you can help him/her understand the feeling by telling him/her, “You look worried. Can you tell me about it?” Information adapted from the following Resources:
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