Social:

• Brings things to “show” other people
• May have temper tantrums
• Reacts to changes in daily routines
• Shows affection to familiar people
• Plays simple pretend, such as feeding a doll
• May cling to caregivers in new situations
• Points to show others something interesting
• Explores alone but with parent close by

Communication:

• Says several single words
• Says and shakes head “no”
• Points to show someone what he wants
• Can find familiar toy when you ask them to find it

Problem-Solving:

• Knows what ordinary things are for; for example, telephone, brush, spoon
• Points to get the attention of others
• Shows interest in a doll or stuffed animal by pretending to feed
• Points to one body part
• Scribbles on his own
• Can follow 1-step verbal commands without any gestures; for example, sits when you say “please sit down”

Movement:

• Walks alone
• May walk up steps and run
• Pulls toys while walking
• Can help undress herself
• Drinks from a cup
• Eats with a spoon

WHAT FAMILIES CAN DO

• Encourage your toddler to have empathy – for example, to hug or pat another child who is sad
• Set limits that are firm, fair and consistent.
• Describe your toddler’s emotions – “You are mad when we have to leave the park.”
• Give your toddler lots of hugs and kisses, and praise for good behavior.
• Hold your toddler on your lap, read aloud and talk about the pictures in the book.
• Repeat the words your toddler says; say the words clearly and correctly.
• Ask your toddler simple questions.
• Talk about what you and your toddler are doing together.
• Sing songs and repeat rhymes together.
• Encourage pretend play with dolls, toy phones or stuffed animals.
• Have your toddler play with books, balls, puzzles and toys that teach cause and effect, and problem solving.
• Give your toddler crayons and paper, and let him/her draw freely.
• Play games naming objects in pictures and body parts.
• Provide toys your toddler can push or pull safely.
• Provide balls for your toddler to kick, roll and throw.
• Encourage your toddler to drink from a cup and use a spoon, no matter how messy.
• Blow bubbles and let your toddler pop them.