Watching your toddler grow and reach new milestones is one of the most rewarding parts of parenthood. These early years are filled with rapid development and exciting changes. At ABC Central Child Development Center in Greeley, CO, we understand the importance of nurturing and celebrating these milestone moments. Here’s a guide to what you can expect in your toddler’s development.
Physical Development
Gross Motor Skills: Around 12 to 24 months, your toddler will begin to master walking, running, and climbing. By age two, they may start to kick balls, jump with both feet and navigate playground equipment with more confidence.
Fine Motor Skills: Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers. Between 18 to 36 months, you’ll notice improvements in your child’s ability to stack blocks, turn pages in a book, and begin scribbling with crayons.
Cognitive Development
Problem-Solving Skills: Toddlers are natural explorers and problem-solvers. They start to understand cause and effect, such as pushing a button to hear a sound or opening a door to see what’s inside. Expect your child to show curiosity about how things work and try to solve simple puzzles.
Language Development: Language skills grow rapidly during the toddler years. By age two, most toddlers can speak in two- to four-word sentences and follow simple instructions. Their vocabulary will expand quickly, and they’ll start using language to express their needs and feelings.
Social and Emotional Development
Self-Awareness: Your toddler will start to develop a sense of self and independence. This can manifest as a desire to do things on their own, such as feeding themselves or choosing their clothes. Expect some assertiveness and occasional defiance as they test boundaries.
Social Interaction: Social skills begin to blossom as toddlers learn to interact with others. They’ll start to engage in parallel play (playing alongside other children without directly interacting) and gradually move towards more cooperative play. By age three, many toddlers begin to understand the concept of sharing and taking turns, though it may still be a work in progress.
Emotional Milestones
Emotional Expression: Toddlers experience a wide range of emotions and are learning how to express them. They might have temper tantrums when frustrated or show affection and empathy towards family members and friends. Helping your child label and talk about their feelings can support their emotional development.
Attachment and Security: Building secure attachments with caregivers is crucial during the toddler years. Your child will look to you for comfort and reassurance as they navigate new experiences. Consistent routines and positive reinforcement can help them feel safe and supported.
Independence and Self-Care
Self-Help Skills: Toddlers begin to develop self-help skills such as washing their hands, brushing their teeth with assistance, and starting to use the potty. Encouraging these skills fosters independence and confidence.
Routine and Structure: Establishing consistent daily routines helps toddlers feel secure and understand what to expect. This includes regular meal times, nap times, and bedtime routines. At ABC Central, we maintain structured schedules that align with children’s natural rhythms, promoting a sense of stability and well-being.
Supporting Your Toddler’s Development at ABC Central
At ABC Central Child Development Center, we are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where your toddler can thrive. Our programs are designed to support each area of your child’s development through age-appropriate activities and personalized attention. Here’s how we help:
Engaging Activities: Our curriculum includes a variety of activities that promote physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. From interactive storytimes and sensory play to outdoor adventures and creative arts, we ensure that your child’s day is filled with enriching experiences.
Qualified Educators: Our experienced educators are dedicated to understanding each child’s unique needs and milestones. They provide a warm and supportive atmosphere where toddlers feel encouraged to explore and learn.
Parent Partnership: We believe in a strong partnership with parents to support your child’s development. Regular communication, progress updates, and parent-teacher meetings help us work together to celebrate achievements and address any concerns.
Celebrating milestone moments in your toddler’s development is a joyous journey. At ABC Central Child Development Center, we are here to support and guide your child through these important stages, ensuring they have a solid foundation for future learning and growth. For more information or to schedule a visit, please visit our website or call us at (970) 352-2222 . ABC Central is conveniently located at 1511 12th Ave, Greeley, CO 80631. We look forward to being a part of your child’s developmental journey!
