If your toddler is constantly uttering “me do” and “I want,” it’s likely that she is asserting her need for more power and freedom. “Although this may feel disconcerting and unbalancing for parents, remember [that] it is vitally important that your child learn to be independent, seeking a greater sense of power and control, as well as asking for and getting more freedom,” says Nancy Buck, developmental psychologist with Peaceful Parenting in Denver. Give your little tyke the freedom to explore her independence by encouraging daily responsibility.
Tag: toddler play
Rainy Day Projects for Parents and Toddlers
It’s raining and pouring, and your toddler's not snoring. Don’t let a few raindrops put a crimp in your plans. Instead, use this time to teach your toddler something new and spend some quality time together with a rainy-day project. “Children gain confidence when they can do, or participate in, the things that adults do,” says Lisa Kathleen, Canada–based founder of Full Circle Parenting and former Montessori teacher. “Competence builds confidence.” From home improvement and baking adventures to crafty creations and cleaning projects, deepen the parent-child bond on a dreary day.
The Positives of Toddler Play
It's no secret that toddlers look forward to playdates, outdoor trips to the park and new toys to fill up the floor of their rooms. Beyond making your child grin from ear to ear, though, the positives of toddler play also contribute significantly to your child's development. "Playing is a child's job," says Nancy Buck, developmental psychologist with Peaceful Parenting in Denver, Colo. "On every level—physical, emotional, intellectual or social—a child is learning."
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 