|
Medical Health Encyclopedia
Toddler development
(Page 3)
PARENTING TIPS
- The toddler years are the time to begin instilling values, reasoning, and incentives in the child, so that they learn accepted rules of behavior. It is important for parents to be consistent both in modeling behavior (behaving the way you want your child to behave),and in addressing appropriate versus inappropriate behavior in the child. Recognize and reward positive behavior. You can introduce time-outs for negative behavior, or for going beyond the limits you set for your child.
- The toddler's favorite word may seem to be "NO!!!" It is important for parents not to fall into a pattern of negative behavior with yelling, spanking, and threatening of their own.
- Teach children the proper names of body parts.
- Stress the unique, individual qualities of the child.
- Teach concepts of please, thank you, and sharing with others.
- Read to the child on a regular basis -- it will enhance the development of verbal skills.
- Toddlers thrive on regularity. Major changes in their routine are challenging for them. Toddlers should have regular nap, bed, snack, and meal times.
- Toddlers should not be allowed to eat many snacks throughout the day. Multiple snack times tend to suppress their appetite for regular meals, which tend to be more balanced.
- Travel and guests can be expected to disrupt the child's routine and make them more irritable. The best responses to these situations are reassurance and reestablishing routine in a calm way.
Review Date: 01/26/2010
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, CPNP, private practice, Seattle, Washington.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
| 
.gif)
Get our free newsletter
