Your Child's Development
PHYSICAL HEALTH
I can climb and dance.
Find places I can use my arms and legs to climb safely. Dance with me!
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL
I need help with my feelings.
Stay near me when I'm upet. Hug me and say kind words to me.
HOW I LEARN
I learn through play.
Let me find new ways to play. Show me your ideas, too.
THINGS I KNOW
I put things together.
Help me play with things I can stack or simple puzzles.
LANGUAGE
I want to be understood.
Listen and give me time to talk. Add your words to mine.
Children learn by trying new things and doing them over and over again. Help your child learn by playing together. He or she will begin to do new things, such as:
• Say simple words.
• Scribble.
• Walk without help.
Talk about the things you are doing and what you see as you walk or drive. This will help your child learn new words. It's important to use real words, not "baby talk." Your child can understand more than he or she can say. Saying "no" is normal for your child. It is a first step toward independence. When your child says "no" it’s important not to get angry. Stay calm and be firm about what you want your child to do. Give him or her simple choices when you can. For example, ask your child, “Do you want to wear your blue or
yellow shirt?”
Help Your Child Learn About Emotions
Your child is starting to express feelings. Help him or her learn how to handle these feelings. Here are some tips:
• Let your child know you understand his or her feelings. Tell your child when you notice he or she is happy, sad, angry, disappointed, excited, etc.
• Play with your child. You may be able to learn why he or she is anxious, scared, happy, or proud.
• Read or look at books about feelings together. Ask your librarian for ideas.
• Be aware of your own emotions. The better you understand your own feelings, the better you will understand your child's.
Your child learns about handling feelings by watching how all adults who care for him or her handle theirs.
Help Your Child Get to Sleep
Most children need a nap during the day and should sleep about 11 to 12 hours at night. A bedtime routine can help your child get used to going to sleep on his or her own. Put your child to bed at the same time every night. Brush teeth and wash his or her face and hands. Look at a picture book together in a quiet environment. Then put your child in bed, give him or her a hug and a kiss, and leave the room. When there are changes in your child's life, such as being sick, going on a trip, moving, or getting a new sibling, his or her sleep habits may change. To help, follow a bedtime routine every night. At age15 months, the greatest risk of SIDS has passed. Let your child choose a special blanket or stuffed animal to take to bed. If you have concerns about sleep, talk with your child’s doctor or nurse.
Stay Involved in Child Care
Your child care provider is your partner in caring for your child. He or she can help your child feel safe and cared for when away from you or another family member. It may help your child to have a drop-off routine. This may include a special hug or a kiss. Here are some tips to stay involved:
• Communicate often about how your child is doing at
child care and at home.
• Volunteer for cleanup days or help with activities.
• Join in special events, such as field trips, career day, or on dates that are culturally important for your family. For more information on choosing quality child care, visit the Department of Early Learning.