While toddlers do have their stereotypes, i.e., “the terrible two’s,” they are truly the sweetest and most adorable little ones.  Toddler behavior is often sparked by their need for independence, because they seem to think they are much older than they truly are.  Many parents choose to read different books regarding raising toddlers that include toddler development, toddlers and nutrition, toddler safety, toddler crying and comfort, toddlers and sleeping, traveling with a toddler and, of course, the oh so difficult task of potty training.

The overall safety of toddlers is intertwined with their nutrition and development.  Parents should take their children for regular checkups to ensure their height and weight is in the correct range, and that they are healthy in all areas.  It is also important for toddlers to receive a correct balance of nutrition that includes fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy beverages like milk.  Another aspect of safety is purchasing rails to put on a toddler’s bed to ensure that they do not fall off the bed during the night.

Playing with toddlers is such a fun experience because you get to witness firsthand as new ideas spark in a small child’s imagination and the amazing, intellectual words that can come out of their mouths.  It is so rewarding to experience the way a child can make a plastic figure appear to come to life or a doll house an actual home.  There are so many toys that are perfect for toddlers and parents to play with together, or to play with while babysitting a toddler.  educational games consist of interactive, electronic Leapfrog games that teach letters and sounds as well as numerous other games.  Play dates are also a wonderful way to allow toddlers to socialize with other children their age and build friendships that can be everlasting.

Toddler firsts are very significant in a toddler’s life as well as their parents.  These firsts include using the toilet for the first time, wearing underwear, not wetting the bed, or playing a sport for the very first time.  These events spark a new wave of independence for a toddler and a brand new big kid attitude.

Potty training is definitely one of the greatest challenges in raising a toddler.  It is often difficult for toddlers to wrap their minds around the idea of going to the bathroom on the toilet and not in the security of their diaper.  After a great deal of practice and a few accidents of bedwetting, toddlers eventually catch on to the idea and end up loving the new world of wearing cool underwear.

Toddler behavior often deals greatly with fits and tantrums due to a toddler wishing to be more independent than they can be.  A lot of small children enjoy testing the boundaries to figure out what they are capable of and what the consequences are of their actions.  Many toddlers can make frequent visits to time-out, but they ultimately begin to realize the respect and behavior expected from them.

Toddlers truly are so very special and sweet, and they never cease to amaze their parents with their growing wisdom, rambunctious attitude, and zeal for life.