Toddlers develop, grow, and learn rapidly, and between 18 months and four years of age, it’s completely normal for children to test boundaries and want to do new things all by themselves. When they’re told “no” or struggle to pull on their own socks, it’s normal for unpleasant tantrums, meltdowns, and tears to burst forth from your frustrated child.
Having a set routine for any part of the day makes toddlers feel secure because they know what to expect and can even look forward to and take pleasure in anticipating the next step. This is even true for bedtime. So, if bedtime in your home tends to be more of a battle than a peaceful end of the day, a routine might be exactly what your wide-awake toddler needs to snuggle up and sleep through the night.
Early childhood is arguably the most important time during any child’s education. During the toddler and preschool years, children learn the basic skills that create the foundation which will support their future education and development. Positive experiences in school and child care during this time in your child’s life establish a springboard which will launch them into grade school with a good attitude, excitement for learning, and the social skills to make friends and confidently join groups.
As adults, and probably even as eight-year-olds, we easily understand the concept and benefits of sharing. Toddlers and preschoolers, however, are still getting the hang of it. From a toddler’s perspective, sharing can mean getting to take toys from others or having toys taken away. While preschoolers are still learning the concept, they begin to understand sharing more completely.
Children seem to love nothing more than running around outside — enjoying the fresh air and perhaps jumping in a water puddle or two. Why does this seem to fulfill something that is missing for them?