DISCLOSURE: As a blogger, my content may include affiliate links from advertisers. I may earn a commission from actions readers take on these links, such as a click, purchase, or subscribe. However, these are the tools that I recommend fully and have helped my blog tremendously and are at no cost to you.
This stage is when your baby’s imagination really takes off! Role-playing games become a favorite, but they might also start getting scared of imaginary monsters or everyday things like darkness or the washing machine. It can be hard for them to tell what’s real and what’s pretend, but don’t worry—this fear shows their cognitive abilities and imagination are growing.
By now, your little one is speaking clearly and using pronouns, making it easier for others to understand them. Their vocabulary is expanding rapidly, with some toddlers knowing hundreds of words by age three and handling more complex instructions. Physically, they’re mastering stairs, jumping, and maybe even riding a tricycle. Their fine motor skills are improving too—they can open doors, containers, and manipulate toys more skillfully.
Emotionally, toddlers are experiencing friendship, compassion, and affection deeply, whether it’s for friends or their beloved toys. They’re learning to share and take turns, though tantrums can still happen when feelings get overwhelming.
Here’s what parents can do:
Engage in fun games like counting stairs or naming body parts. Role-playing can help with emotional regulation, but don’t let them get too absorbed. Make sure they have plenty of outdoor time for running, jumping, and exploring freely.
To foster social skills, give your child opportunities to play with peers and learn conflict resolution on their own. Be ready to step in if needed, as toddlers often need guidance from parents to manage emotions and conflicts.
Watch out for these “red signals” in development:
- Separation anxiety persists.
- Difficulty communicating with people outside the family.
- Avoidance of playing with peers.
- Trouble making eye contact.
- Inability to throw or jump.
- Difficulty climbing stairs with alternating feet.
- Challenges with drawing or writing.
- Incomplete sentences.
- Using fewer than three words in a sentence.
- Strangers can’t understand their speech.
- Basic self-care tasks like dressing or sleeping independently are tough.
- Regression in previously mastered skills.
Remember, every child develops at their own pace, so don’t worry if your baby doesn’t fit every detail here. If you have concerns about their growth or development, consult a pediatrician for guidance.
If you like our content, please like, comment and share. Sharing is caring!
Please also support and subscribe to our Healthy Mum and Bub eNewsletter for insights on parenthood and beyond. Follow our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, seek advice, and share in the collective wisdom of the parenting journey. Together, let’s navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, fostering a community of support and empowerment for all.