subject: How To Cope With A Toddler [print this page] When a baby reaches 12-18 months there is a notable change in their development. This stage is usually labelled as the 'toddler' stage or less affectionately, 'the terrible twos.' This can be a challenging time for both the toddler and their parents. This article offers parents some insights into understanding this period of change.
What are the signs that your baby has become a toddler?
The first signs begin at about twelve to eighteen months. Your baby takes their first steps and is developing basic language skills, being able to say a few words. If you observe these behaviours, it is very likely they have entered the toddler stage between baby and childhood.
What are the characteristics of this stage?
The baby has discovered a new sense of freedom and is able to move around more, unattended. It wants to get out into the world to explore but is still very dependent on its parents, leading to feelings of frustration. The toddler does not always act logically. They are able to make very simple choices but cannot fully understand them. They may choose two different things at the same time and get moody if they can't have them immediately. They do not understand either/or, so any effort you make as a parent to bargain with them, by offering choices, is usually in vain.
The toddler acts very much on impulse and lacks the self control that is needed to make future plans. They are very much about 'now' and lack patience, which can be very exhausting for the parents.
They have not yet learned that there is danger out in the world and that they need to take care. They can appear as wild and are often difficult to discipline. Also their limited memory makes it difficult for you as a parent to teach them to understand how to behave. You will often find you need to repeat instructions many times.
The toddler does not yet understand how their actions may effect others. This can make it difficult at times for them to socialize as they are not happy to share or take turns.
Lastly, they demand a huge amount of attention, which can be difficult to supply in the amounts requested. Parents can cope by keeping in mind that this is a normal phase of development, that is short term. This will help you to appreciate that your baby is also developing into a lively, fun and enthusiastic child.
I hope you have found this article useful and it has deepened your understanding of this stage of a child's development.
