Toddlerhood is a beautiful and complex stage in a child’s physical, cognitive, emotional , social and interpersonal development. By the age of 3, a toddler’s physical abilities will allow for independent movement, exploration and an ever-increasing curiosity about the world  around them. Becoming aware of these subtle developmental characteristics allow parents to be fully present so that we can provide the safe emotional space a toddler needs in difficult moments. Once we understand the inner world of our child, we can show up from a place of love and empowerment. So, what do we need to know about our toddler’s inner world? Find the answers below: 

1. A toddler has become aware that they are a separate self (individual) from the primary caregiver. This means that the strive for autonomy and independence is the main driver for all behavior.
2. A toddler’s language skills are advancing rapidly; however, toddlers are incapable of verbalizing their needs and emotions. They will use behavior to communicate, primarily through temper tantrums, aggression, lack of cooperation, and a resistance to rules and structure.
3.  A toddler is a magical thinker—they use symbols and imagination. They have not yet learned to distinguish between reality and fantasy.
4. A toddler is beginning to actively master impulse control (for example, toilet training).
5. A toddler’s foundation of self-esteem and personal will is being built now and depends entirely on the response from their caregiver.
6. The toddler’s impulse is to explore—they want and need to feel independent.
7. A toddler needs secure attachment and connection with at least one primary caretaker in his/her life.

This is a sample of the wisdom from my book. To learn easy and practical tools to connect with your toddler when parenting gets difficult, order my book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647396670

Yours in growth and gratitude,

Mihaela

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