Toddlers

From LoveToKnow Baby

From Walking to Running

Toddlers are babys who walk more than they crawl. The age that this may occur differs quite vastly among toddlers. Some babies begin walking by the time they are ten months, while others wait until they are well past the first year mark. Unless you are overly concerned about your child's development, don't worry about when he walks. Of course, if you feel that there is something physically wrong with your child, you should contact your pediatrician and relate your worries and questions to him or her.

Once toddlers begin to walk, they may become one big bruise. Of course, they've probably already had a few bruises along the way, but these will be nothing compared to those they accumulate as they navigate their way around the world on two feet! Short of wrapping your child completely in think cotton padding, there isn't much you can do to keep your baby completely bruise-free. However, you will need to watch your inquisitive little one continuously.

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Baby Proof Your Home

If you haven't already done so, it is very important that you baby proof your home to protect your little one. If you don't think there are any hazards in your home, think again! Get down on your knees so that you are at your child's level of height, and take a look around. Common household items are endless sources of fascination to a toddler. The following items should be checked in your home:

Use safety plugs in all unused electrical outlets
Attach cabinet stops to any cabinets that you want to remain closed
Move all household cleaners, medicines, and any other poisonous material to high cabinets out of baby's reach
Place doorknob covers on doors that you want to keep your child from opening
Attach toilet seat locks to prevent your child from accidentally falling into the commode
Be sure mini-blind cords are completely out of your child's reach to prevent the risk of strangulation
Use safety shields on stoves and ovens that have knobs that your child can reach
Always keep the handles of cooking pots turned away from the outer edge of the stove
Keep your water heater's temperature set to 120 degrees or lower to prevent scalding
Make sure your child cannot reach any outdoor water, such as a pool, pond, bucket, etc.

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Toddler Temperament

With the exception of the teen years, toddler years can be the most volatile and emotional years your child may experience. You may have heard these years sometimes referred to as the terrible two's and three's. Your toddler is learning to express her likes and dislikes, and she can do this loudly. She is also developing a mind of her own, and she probably won't be shy about showing it! One minute she may be pushing you away, wanting to do things on her own, and the next minute may find her running straight to your arms for comfort. As long as you continue to provide a steady, loving presence in her life, she will be fine. You are helping her to venture out and learn new things, while at the same time providing a safe haven for her to run to.

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Stimulate Toddler's Mind

Finally, toddlerhood is a time of growing and learning. Your baby will learn new skills, activities, words, and actions every day. You can help him learn by playing fun games, such as "Where's Your Nose?" and "Hide and Seek". He will love singing repetitive songs with you, such as "ABC's" and "Ten Little Indians". Look for opportunities to help him learn about his world. Take him to places, such as parks, grocery stores, and museums, and point out different objects, naming each one. Ask him questions about what he sees. Above all, read to him every day! Yes, your toddler will keep you very busy, but you and he can learn together and have fun at the same time!

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