How to help your toddler understand their emotions
Describing your toddler’s emotions helps them make the connection between their feelings and their behavior. Over time, this teaches them that they can control how they act when they feel a certain way.
How to help your toddler connect how they feel to what they do
Narrate what they’re doing, then simply but clearly make the link to their emotional state. For example, you can tell them:
“Your cracker broke in half and you started crying. You seem really sad.”
“It’s time to go and you sat down. I wonder if you don’t want to leave.”
“You are holding Mommy’s leg so tightly. Could you be feeling worried?”
“What a big yawn. You must be so sleepy!”
“You see Grandma walking up the sidewalk and you’re jumping up and down. You’re so excited to see her!”
Keep reading
16 - 18 Months
19 - 21 Months
22 - 24 Months
How many words should your toddler be able to say?
The average vocabulary at 18 months is about 50 words, but toddlers can say far more or fewer and still be on track.
16 - 18 Months
19 - 21 Months
22 - 24 Months
Real—even breakable—materials can teach your toddler valuable skills
Using real materials is a common Montessori practice. It can teach toddlers how to handle things with care, building independence and confidence.
16 - 18 Months
19 - 21 Months
22 - 24 Months
The enclosing schema: 4 simple activities for toddlers
When your toddler crawls into a cardboard box or places a cup inside a bigger container, they’re exploring the “enclosing” schema.