Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

Growth & Development: I can do it!

More Independent...

Your little one wants to do more and more for themself with each passing month. They are getting dressed in the morning, brushing his/her teeth at night, using a fork and spoon, and buckling themselves into his booster seat. He/she may even start their own routines and rituals-a sign of independence and growing self-esteem.8

Learning Quickly...

Your toddler is learning like crazy, and probably knows his/her first and last names, address and phone number. They are learning and understanding the alphabet and may be able to write at least some letters of his/her name.8

Feelings...

At this age, you're seeing signs of your child growing emotionally as well. He/she may recognize how others feel and show their sense of humor by trying to make you laugh. They are developing friendships independent of you and really playing with other kids rather than side by side. He/she may start asking complicated questions about birth and death.8

Toddler Tips

Good Advice for Mom

  • Encourage playtime each day. The National Association of Sports and Physical Education says that every day, preschoolers should get at least an hour of structured physical activity led by an adult, an hour of free play time, and not be inactive for more than an hour at a time unless they're asleep. That may seem like a lot, but it goes by quickly when you make it part of your family's routine. Plan walks, easy backyard games and a daily bike or tricycle ride to keep your child moving.9
  • Watch the amount of juice your toddler drinks. Studies show the sugar in fruit juice can discolor and eat away at tooth enamel, especially if children drink juice from bottles, cups or boxes all day or at bedtime. One way to lessen the risk is to dilute their juice with water.10
  • Protect them from the sun. Even little bodies need protection from the sun's damaging rays. Always put sunscreen on your child about 20-30 minutes before they go outside, and use a PABA-free brand with an SPF of 15 or higher. Even if it's waterproof, it should be reapplied every 80 minutes or so if they're playing in the water.11

8 “Your 4-Year-Old,” “Your 4 ¼-Year-Old,” “Your 4 ½-Year-Old,” and “Your 4 ¾-Year-Old”http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

9 “Should Your Preschooler Play Sports?”www.kidshealth.org

10 “Q&A: Can Too Much Juice Discolor Teeth?”www.kidshealth.org

11 “Tips for Sunscreen Use”www.drgreene.com

Consult your physician or dental professional if using another fluoridated product.

Helpful Tips
for Parents

Don’t Bug Me!

Playing outside is one of the joys of summer, but your toddler isn’t the only one taking advantage of the warm weather. Bugs are on the rise this time of year, but insect repellent can help protect your child from biting insects
More

Vitamin Efficiency

Multivitamins seem like a good way to ensure your toddler gets the nutrients he needs. But before you add the fun shapes and sweet flavors to his routine, talk to your pediatrician. Many think multivitamins are unnecessary for children unless they lack certain vitamins and minerals because of a food sensitivity or poor diet. If you decide multivitamins are right for your toddler, give him a children’s formula to prevent toxic doses, keep them out of his reach and teach him vitamins are medicine and not candy.

Source: Mayo Clinic website at www.mayoclinic.com, August 4, 2006

Now Hear This!

Listening skills are vital to your child’s education, verbal communication and interpersonal relationships. He’ll start learning to listen as young as two when you practice and encourage these good habits: Get down on his level and make eye contact while talking. Don’t interrupt unless there’s a question. Divide listening and talking roles. Pay attention to what he says and respond with a nod or a comment. Ask him to repeat what you’ve talked about and compliment him for being a good listener.

Source: “Teach Your Kids Listening Skills (the Real ABC's),” by Jodie Lynn, www.family.go.com, accessed October 15, 2007.