Your child may sometimes become more emotional or quit doing the things they used to do for a short time when they’re learning new things. For example, a toddler may cry more often when they’re learning to walk, while a 4 year old may have trouble sleeping when they first start preschool.
Some parents feel frustrated at these times. It helps to remember that this is a normal part of development, and it’s likely to get better soon. Be patient and try to keep to a predictable routine during developmental spurts. This will help your child from being overwhelmed as they adapt to changes.
You know your child best.
You support your child’s development by helping them meet their needs. In this way, your child will learn healthy habits so that they’ll be able to meet their own needs when they’re older.
It’s the things you do every day with your child that make a difference:
- Offer a variety of healthy foods.
- Encourage play every day.
- Help them get enough sleep.
- Have lots of serve-and-return interactions.
- Hold them and offer comfort.
- Be interested in what they’re interested in at that moment.
- Talk, play, read, sing and have fun together.
- Provide warmth and structure.
- Take care of yourself so you have the energy to help your child.
When your child has their needs met, they’re more likely to:
- Feel good about themselves.
- Respect and care for themselves and others.
- Become responsible, confident and caring adults.
