Your Baby
Is learning how his actions affect others. Until now your toddler has been checking out his world and learning about his surroundings. Now he is more curious about how his actions affects other. You may see him try to poke, pull, or scream at you to get your attention. This is normal and your kind response helps him to grow and know he’s safe.
May be using three to six words – Respond to his words and have conversations during play and daily routines. Older siblings can help teach new words such as naming body parts. Books are a great opportunity to build vocabulary as well. Read to your child every day. In picture books point and name what you see.
Can enjoy artwork – Create a safe area to explore how crayons, markers, and paints work. Remember to supply washable and non-toxic tools!
Can handle a drink from an open cup or using a straw.
Is ready to walk up and down steps – You still need to be there to supervise.
Might enjoy playing toss – Have some safe, soft items available for this activity.
Might begin to recognize family and friends as special in her life – Make a photo book of special people and look at it with your toddler, pointing out or naming familiar people.
How Much is a Serving?
As a general rule, a child sized serving is 1/4 to 1/2 of an adult serving. You can also offer one tablespoon of each food for each year of your child’s age. One final idea is to use the size of your child’s palm as a guide for how much of each food to offer. Start with these amounts and offer more if your child is still hungry. Your child may eat more some days and less other days. It is normal for toddlers to refuse new foods at first. Keep offering! Children will usually accept new foods over time when you are calm and positive.
Your Family
Playgroups are great for your toddler and for you too. Parents of toddlers find themselves running, bending and moving as fast as their children. It is helpful to talk to other parents who are as busy as you are! Play groups for parents and children are held in your area. If you’d like more information, refer to your community resource list or contact your Healthy Futures nurse.
Public Libraries are a great and free resource. Your public library may offer children’s programs, such as story time and parenting information. For more information, contact the public library in your area.
Your Checklist
Make sure your home is safe for a toddler. As your toddler grows, your safety needs continually change.
• Avoid foods that can cause choking (nuts, popcorn, hotdogs, and grapes)
• Continue to use an approved car seat
• Post poison control number by your phone:1-800-222-1222
• For more information on child safety, visit safekids.org
Your toddler is due for her 15-month immunizations and well-baby checkup. Vaccine-preventable diseases can cause serious harm to children who are not fully immunized. Call your toddler’s health care provider or local health department to make an appointment.
Help your toddler brush his/her teeth. The development of healthy habits begins early on in a child’s life. Help your toddler brush his teeth, with water and a soft toothbrush, regularly, after meals and before bed.
