Pretend play and milestones

It may not seem like a milestone, but if your toddler snaps your photo with a wooden block (like a camera) or bundles her bear into a blanket, she’s made an important development leap.

Baby and baby blankets

Babies love the warmth and security of their own blanket. Choose one that is small enough that they can carry it around as a toddler.

Decorating a child’s bedroom

When decorating a toddler’s bedroom choose a theme but keep it simple, usually choosing something from one of their favorite storybooks is a great idea.

Breastfeeding guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises breast milk or formula through 12 mos. (USDA guidelines require breast milk/formula through 7 mos.)

Communication with your kids

Talk to your toddler/child about what they and you are doing. Keeping up a steady stream of narration helps support their language development.

Nature walks are educational and fun

Go for a nature walk – Educational yet lots of fun. Your toddler will love exploring and collecting different treasures to bring home.

The best time to play with baby

The best time to play with your baby is when he’s alert and relaxed. Watch your baby closely for signs of being tired or fussy so that you can take a break.

Practicing Potty Training

Encourage toddler go through same steps when going potty like removing underpants, sitting down, releasing bladder, wiping up, flushing & washing of hands.

Common items can be bathroom dangers

Keep items like mouthwash, toothpaste and other kid hazard items away. Plungers can make a fun (if not disgusting) play toy to a toddler; don’t leave one by the toilet.

Ask your child’s opinion

Ask for your child’s opinion on things!   This helps them realize that what they say matters.

Mastering hand-eye skills

All the smaller, more dexterous movements that involve concentration and hand-eye coordination are fine motor skills. Your child starts mastering these skills with the pincher grasp.

Everyday materials for crafts

You can reuse materials such as egg cartons, yarn scraps, toilet paper tubes, and boxes for many activities.

Choking hazards

Be on constant guard for small toys and objects that can be choking hazards, batteries, coins, marbles, and pieces of toys from older siblings.

When todders begin drawing and coloring

By 18 months, it is age appropriate for your child to try scribbling with a crayon.

Reasuring your kids

It is important to let your kids know you are always there for them no matter what the subject is.

Being a role model

Be a positive role model. If you’re practicing healthy habits, it’s a lot easier to convince children to do the same.

Using burp cloths

Burp cloths are the perfect size for throwing over your shoulder to avoid mishaps. Cloth diapers can be used as a substitute.

Pool safety tip

Always enclose pools, ponds or hot tubs and put a safety fence between any water source and the house.

Party tip in planning a party

Involve children in party planning. Kids like to get involved when motivated to be especially helpful.

Making for safe swing sets

Backyard swing sets and play areas are wonderful, but make sure they are safe by having a soft surface underneath.