Tips on Being with a Toddler
- Make eye contact with the child when speaking with them
- Simplify adult language: “Let’s wash hands. Snack time!”
- Recognize that child’s spoken language is limited; respond to his/her needs
- Respect child’s need to carry around a favorite object
- Understand that testing limits and saying “NO!” to adults is healthy as a part of developing independence
- Support toddler play and recognize that sharing is NOT yet a part of your child’s development
- Respect solitary and parallel play as appropriate to this stage
- Expect toddlers to explore and manipulate art materials rather than completing a project
- Provide necessary support when a task is frustrating
- Have toys available on open shelves so children can make their own selections