It’s all go for your toddler at the moment. From charging around the house with increased confidence to playing a favorite game on repeat, your little one is busier than ever.
And repeat
As you sing Twinkle,Twinkle for the tenth time in a row you’d be forgiven for feeling exasperated when your toddler cries ‘again’ at the end. But repetition is very important for your toddler’s development. A favorite book, song, or endless rounds of peekaboo might be boring for you, but it gives your little one a sense of security and structure. They enjoy knowing what comes next and feel pleased with themselves when they can join in with a few of the words or actions.
Changing tastes
Although you’ve come a long way since the purées of weaning, your toddler probably has some firm favorites when it comes to mealtimes and might resist new flavors and textures. If you’ve got a fussy eater, offer new foods with something you know they love to make it less daunting, and don’t pile the plate up with food as that can be daunting. If they turn their nose up the first time you try something, wait a few weeks and try again as it can take up to ten times for children to accept a new taste. To avoid mealtime meltdowns give them a choice – tomatoes or cucumber? Rice or pasta? That way you’re handing them some control. Avoid using sweet treats to bribe them to eat something – it will be a hard habit to break!
Running and climbing
If your little one has been walking for a while, they might start picking up speed now. They’ll find it great fun to tear about but might find navigating obstacles tricky so be prepared for a few bumps. Your toddler might also now be able to climb the stairs holding on to the banister or your hand. Make it fun by counting as you go and then when it’s time to come down again, encourage them to bump down on their bottoms until they’re a bit steadier. Stair gates are a good idea to prevent tumbles.
How are you feeling?
Coping with toddler tantrums and mealtime dramas can be hard and will often leave parents feeling drained and frustrated. Distraction is your best weapon and you’ll soon work out what works for your little one. Rest assured that like most things, this is just a phase that will end, usually when your toddler learns how to tell you what they want. Hang in there and make sure you take some time out for yourself and share the difficult times with your partner or family.
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