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