Toddler age is between the ages of one to three years. This is a very crucial age where a child goes through the main development spheres. Physical being, motor skills, social skills, increase in vocabulary or an improvement in their language skills as well as their imaginary or cognitive skills.
Here are some of the needs of every toddler:
1. Love
Every toddler needs love. There are gestures and ways that you could make your toddler feel loved. It could be as basic as regular hugs and kisses, smiling at them, telling them you love them, having fun, cooking together, praising their work and thanking them often, having routines, for instance bed time, story reading, having matching shirts et cetera. Despite having a bad day, you should try as much as possible not to take it out on your toddler.
2. Rest
Rest is quite important for a toddler. A toddler needs an average of 11-14 hours of uninterrupted sleep each 24 hours. This means incorporating nap times during the day and a whole night’s sleep. Rest is recommended for toddlers because of its importance in brain development of the child, it helps deal with weight issues, relieves toddler stress and aids in fighting illness. A toddler’s physical growth also takes place in their sleep. To make this effortless, a bed time and nap time routine is necessary.
3. Give them positive attention
Attention to toddlers goes a long way in their development of their self-worth and confidence. They feel valued and their self-esteem shoots up given positive attention. Examples of giving positive attention include smiling often at your toddler, showing interest in your toddler’s activities, games, recognizing their efforts and rewarding them for it.
4. Basic needs
A toddler needs good shelter away from harsh weather conditions, clothing that suit the climatic environment they live in and a balanced diet for their growth and development.
5. Self-reliance
Toddler age is when a child starts to become self-reliant and independent. They want to do things by themselves. They are at a stage of exploration. Parents should encourage their toddlers to be independent. For instance, by letting them feed themselves, take charge of the games they play, dressing themselves et cetera. Independence in toddlers cultivates social skills and makes them feel important and gives them a sense of belonging.
6. Patience
Many times parents feel like their toddlers are testing their patience. These are quite demanding years. While it’s a stage that toddlers have to go through, it can be really stressful. This is where your patience as the adult comes to play. It’s important to realize that the tantrums are healthy in your toddler’s growth. Since the toddlers want to show independence and self-reliance, create an environment where they can explore freely. For instance, having child friendly access to the snack area, offering solutions to their problems among other ways.
7. Daily essentials
A toddler needs essentials for seamless and stress free days outdoors or indoors. They include diaper bag essentials, a toy that will keep your toddler busy during their play time. Clothes to change are also necessary as toddlers are very messy and for changes in weather conditions. A blanket is needed also for your toddler’s nap time. A baby stroller can also come in handy as your toddler might get tired of walking.
8. Open space
A toddler need open space where they can play without any hindrances. An area they can crawl, walk or run in these exploration years.
