At this age, the focus is on creating a healthy beginning and fostering positive social, emotional, and moral development that will extend through your child’s lifespan.
Build routines
Predictable daily routines help toddlers feel safe and secure.
Nourish your child and make mealtimes meaningful
Feeding is about more than food. It is also a time to connect.
- Use feeding times to build closeness and trust, whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or sharing meals
- Trust your child’s hunger and fullness cues
- Avoid forcing food, bribing, or pressuring your child to eat
- Offer a variety of healthy foods and let your child decide how much to eat
This helps children build a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.
Structure and discipline with respect
Toddlers often say “no” as they learn independence.
- Avoid bribes or harsh punishment, which can harm trust and self-esteem
- Make tasks fun when possible (for example, turn cleanup into a game)
- Offer simple choices (for example, “Do you want to pick up toys before or after snack?”)
- Explain rules in simple terms and stay consistent
- Do not use physical punishment
Gentle guidance helps toddlers learn self-control and respect.
Allow your toddler to say “no” sometimes
Saying “no” helps toddlers learn self-advocacy, an important life skill.
- Let them make small choices when it is safe (like clothing or whether to give a hug)
- Set clear boundaries for safety (like car seats or sitting at the table)
- Stay calm and kind when enforcing rules
Be a positive role model
Toddlers learn by watching you.
- Show kindness, honesty, and self-control in your actions
- Be mindful of how you model alcohol, tobacco, or other adult behaviors
Take care of yourself
Parenting is hard work.
- Make time for your own health and interests
- Stay connected with friends and other parents for support
When you take care of yourself, you are better able to care for your child.
Build a strong bond and talk about feelings
A strong relationship helps protect children as they grow.
- Respond with care, comfort, and attention to build trust
- Encourage other safe, caring adults to be part of your child’s life
- Help your child name their feelings (for example, “You feel mad because your toy was taken”)
- Stay calm during tantrums and support your child as they learn to handle emotions in safe ways