You’ve survived year one of having a baby! Congratulations. Next up: toddlerhood!

The toddler stage is a whirlwind of energy, discovery, and rapid growth. It's a period of immense change, where your little one makes transitions from a dependent baby into a curious, independent explorer. In preparation for the toddler years, learn how to navigate these years safely, positively, and with clear communication.

Typically, "toddlerhood" encompasses ages 1 to 4. It's characterized by:

• Physical Milestones: Walking, running, climbing – toddlers are constantly on the move.
• Cognitive Leaps: Their minds are like sponges, soaking up new information and language. They’re constantly learning new things and discovering the world around them.
• Emotional Development: This is a time of big emotions, from joyful squeals to full-blown tantrums. Remember, tantrums are normal and a way for toddlers to express frustration and test boundaries. They're part of the learning process!

Navigating Toddlerhood

1. Safety First

Your child might be motoring around already, or pretty soon they will be! They’re becoming more mobile, more talkative, and more adventurous. These very exciting developmental milestones mean that there are some steps you can take to make sure your home is safe and ready for when they start walking and running.

• Babyproofing: Even if you baby proofed for your infant, revisit it. Toddlers reach new heights and have a knack for finding trouble. Secure cabinets, cover outlets, and ensure a safe environment for exploration.
• Supervision: Toddlers need constant supervision, especially around water, stairs, and potential hazards. Share any concerns with the other adults who spend time with your child, like grandparents, aunts and uncles, and babysitters or nannies.

2. Enrichment and Play

You’ve gone from, “do babies even play?” to “how can I make the most of playtime?” As your child grows and develops, the way that they play will grow and develop too. 

• Challenging Toys: Offer toys that encourage problem-solving, fine motor skills, and creativity. Building blocks, puzzles, and simple art supplies are great options. No need to run out and buy new toys either. You probably have a lot of items at home that are interesting to a toddler and that support creative play!
• Emotional Connection: Happy Little People™ Card Deck: The Second Year (12-24 Months) cards are a powerful tool for connecting with your toddler. The activities help toddlers with emotional development, curiosity and creativity, fine and gross motor skills, cognitive development, and even independent play.
• Language Development: Talk to your toddler constantly, narrate your actions, and read to them often. By watching and hearing you, their little brain is building their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
• Encourage Solo Play: This is new! Your child’s attention span is increasing, which means that they will soon be ready to play independently. It’s an important part of their development, instilling confidence and independence.

3. Discipline with Love

Now that your child is learning and exploring more every day, you may find that you need to redirect or correct their behavior more than ever before. 

• Consistency: Set clear, consistent rules and consequences. Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability.
• Follow Through: If you say there's a consequence for a behavior, follow through every time. Toddlers are learning the rules of the world around them, so accountability helps them learn from mistakes.
• Limit Distractions: When disciplining your child, avoid distractions like screens or toys. Focus on the behavior and the consequences.
• Prioritize Sleep: Just like adults, little ones become cranky when they’re tired, making it hard for them to process information and make clear decisions. Toddlers need plenty of sleep to function at their best. Establish a bedtime routine and ensure they're getting enough rest.

Communication is Key

Even though they're little, toddlers understand more than you think. Communicate with them clearly and at their level. Use simple words, gestures, and facial expressions to explain expectations and consequences.

• Celebrate the Milestones: Toddlerhood is full of exciting "firsts." Celebrate each new skill and milestone with your child. Praise them openly and tell them you’re proud of them. Remind them often of the new things they’re doing and learning.
• Embrace the Mess: Toddlers are messy by nature. Accept it and focus on the joy of their exploration.
• Seek Support: Parenting a toddler can be challenging and is an adjustment for a family. Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or professionals if you need it.
• Say “Thank You” Often: Help cultivate a grateful child by modeling it yourself. Give plenty of positive affirmations to reinforce positive behavior.