As a toddler’s physical growth rate slows as they develop physical, cognitive, and emotional skills that help them become more independent. Much of the toddler’s behavior is a replication of what they see and hear (Hisley, 2015). They love to imitate the people around them and learn through repetition. A toddler typically likes order and frequently respond with difficulty to any disruption in routine. The level of response is associated to the temperament of the child (Hisley, 2015). Some toddlers may revolt with temper tantrums while others will calmly transition into an experience. Regardless of temperament, most children at this stage respond positively to predictable routines. The toddler’s taste buds are evolving and changing. It is important to make sure they get the appropriate nutrition needed and keep them well hydrated. Barriers can be resolved by allowing the toddler to self-feed and use a cup at mealtimes. Other options might also include allowing the child to make food choices, provide finger foods, and provide two to three healthy snacks per day (Hisley, 2015). One of the most important self-hygiene tasks that toddler needs to understand is hand washing. They should be taught in an understandable way how germs are spread, and how hand washing kills germs. They should also understand how and when to wash their hands and encourage them to practice this skill often (Oswalt et. al, n.d.). Toddlers need plenty of exercise to keep their bodies and minds healthy and happy. Daily physical activity is essential for building strong bones and muscles as well as strengthening hearts and lungs. Exercise also helps to improve their gross motor skills, including running, kicking, throwing, and swinging (Oswalt et. al, n.d.). Regular physical activity can greatly decrease children’s risk of becoming obese and developing associated health problems and can also promote better sleep. A healthy diet and physical activity are not the only thing that will help a child continue to grow and develop physically, mentally, and socially (Oswalt et. al, n.d.). They also need adequate amounts of sleep to allow their bodies time to recharge however, getting them to want to go to sleep is not always an easy task. A well-planned bedtime routine can help prepare the child mentally and physically to move from their active, exciting daytime adventures to quiet, nighttime sleep (Oswalt et. al, n.d.). Consistency is the most important part of a planned bedtime routine.

As a toddler enters the stage of development, their physical growth rate begins to slow down. This phase is characterized by the development of physical, cognitive, and emotional skills that help them become more independent (Hisley, 2015). During this time, toddlers often engage in behavior that replicates what they see and hear around them. They love to imitate the people in their environment and learn through repetition. This imitation behavior is a crucial part of their learning process.

One prominent characteristic of toddlers is their preference for order and routine. They thrive in environments where they can predict and anticipate what will happen next. Disruptions in their routine can often provoke a strong response, which can vary based on their temperament (Hisley, 2015). Some toddlers may respond with temper tantrums, while others may be more adaptable and transition calmly into new experiences. However, regardless of temperament, most children at this stage respond positively to predictable routines.

In terms of nutrition, the toddler’s taste buds are evolving and changing. It is important to provide them with appropriate nutrition and keep them well hydrated. One way to overcome barriers related to mealtimes is by allowing the toddler to self-feed and use a cup. This promotes independence and gives them a sense of control over their eating habits. Additionally, offering food choices, providing finger foods, and offering healthy snacks throughout the day can also enhance their nutrition (Hisley, 2015).

Another critical aspect of toddler development is teaching them self-hygiene tasks, such as hand washing. Toddlers should be taught in an understandable way about how germs are spread and how hand washing can help kill germs. Teaching them when and how to wash their hands and encouraging frequent practice of this skill can help establish good hygiene habits (Oswalt et al., n.d.).

Physical activity plays a vital role in a toddler’s overall health and development. Daily physical activity is essential for building strong bones and muscles, as well as strengthening hearts and lungs. It also helps improve gross motor skills, including running, kicking, throwing, and swinging (Oswalt et al., n.d.). Regular physical activity reduces the risk of obesity and associated health problems and promotes better sleep.

While a healthy diet and physical activity are crucial for a child’s physical and mental development, sleep also plays a significant role. Adequate amounts of sleep are necessary to allow the body to recharge and support optimal growth and development. However, getting a toddler to go to sleep can be challenging. Establishing a well-planned bedtime routine can help prepare them mentally and physically for transitioning from their active daytime adventures to a quiet nighttime sleep (Oswalt et al., n.d.). Consistency is key in implementing a bedtime routine and ensuring a smooth transition into sleep.

In summary, the toddler stage is marked by slowed physical growth rates and the development of various skills that promote independence. Toddlers learn through imitation and repetition, and they prefer order and routine. It is important to provide them with appropriate nutrition and hydration, encourage self-feeding, and teach them good hygiene habits such as hand washing. Physical activity is crucial for their physical and mental well-being, while a well-planned bedtime routine can aid in a smooth transition to sleep. Consistency is crucial in implementing routines and ensuring optimal growth and development during this stage.