Toddler Moms (3-5 Years)

Play is a toddler's primary way of learning. UNICEF's Nurturing Care Framework emphasizes play for cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Types of Play:

• Sensory Play: Sand, water, playdough - develops fine motor skills and exploration
• Imaginative Play: Pretend play with dolls, dress-up, kitchen - develops social skills and creativity
• Physical Play: Running, climbing, dancing - supports gross motor development and confidence
• Constructive Play: Blocks, puzzles - builds problem-solving and spatial awareness

Tips: Allow unstructured play daily, rotate toys, limit screen time to 1 hour of quality content, play alongside your toddler

Learn more: UNICEF Early Childhood Development

Toddlers test boundaries as they develop autonomy. Positive discipline teaches rather than punishes.

Positive Discipline Strategies:

• Set Clear Expectations: Use simple, consistent rules. Toddlers thrive with routine and predictability
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise specific good behavior ("You shared nicely!") more than correcting mistakes
• Natural Consequences: Let safe consequences teach (e.g., spilled milk means we clean up together)
• Redirect Behavior: Offer alternative activities rather than just saying "no"
• Timeout (1-2 minutes): When needed, use calm-down time rather than punishment
• Stay Calm: Your calm response models emotional regulation for your toddler

Understanding Tantrums: Tantrums are normal as toddlers struggle with big emotions in small bodies. Validate feelings ("You're frustrated"), maintain safety, and offer comfort once calm.

Toddlers' growth slows after age 2, so appetite may decrease. Focus on nutrition, not quantity.

Nutritional Needs (ages 3-5):

• 1200-1400 calories daily (varies by size and activity)
• Dairy or alternatives for calcium and bone development
• Lean proteins for growth and brain development
• Fruits and vegetables for vitamins and fiber
• Whole grains for energy and sustained development
• Iron-rich foods (meat, legumes, fortified cereals) - especially important post-toddlerhood

Healthy Eating Habits:

• Offer 3 meals + 2-3 snacks at regular times
• Use the "Division of Responsibility" - you decide what, when, and where; child decides whether and how much
• Involve toddlers in food selection and simple prep
• Model healthy eating - children copy parents
• Limit sugary drinks and processed foods
• Make mealtimes social and enjoyable, not battles

The early years are critical for language development. By age 5, toddlers should understand most of what's said to them and speak in sentences.

Supporting Language Growth:

• Talk, narrate, and explain daily activities ("We're putting on your shoes now...")
• Read daily - 20+ minutes of stories builds vocabulary and brain connections
• Respond to babbling and early words - encourages more communication
• Ask open-ended questions ("What do you see?") rather than yes/no questions
• Limit screen time - interactive conversation is far more beneficial
• Listen actively and give your toddler time to express themselves

Red Flags: If your child isn't speaking, understanding simple directions, or engaging by age 3, discuss with your pediatrician about speech screening.

Most children show readiness for toilet training between 2-3 years, though readiness varies widely. Forcing too early can backfire.

Signs of Readiness (around age 3):

• Staying dry for 2+ hours or through naps
• Showing interest in bathroom habits
• Communicating need to use the bathroom
• Ability to follow simple instructions
• Discomfort in dirty diapers

Supportive Strategies:

• Start when life is calm (not during big changes like new sibling, moving)
• Let child choose a potty chair or seat reducer - give ownership
• Establish routine (after meals, before bed, etc.)
• Celebrate successes matter-of-factly - avoid pressure
• Accidents are normal - respond with patience and encouragement
• Nighttime training comes later - separate from daytime training

Toddlers are curious and mobile, requiring increased safety measures. Regular health checks ensure development is on track.

Health Screening (Ages 3-5):

• Annual well-child visits with growth measurements
• Developmental screening and behavioral assessment
• Vision and hearing tests
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Ongoing immunizations (check schedule for your region)

Home Safety:

• Secure furniture to walls to prevent tipping
• Gates at stairs and access to hazardous areas
• Outlet covers and secure electrical cords
• Medications and cleaning supplies locked away
• Constant supervision near water (pools, bathtubs)
• Car seats and proper restraint systems