- Toddler
Toddler is a common term for a young
child who is learning to walk or "toddle" [Microsoft Encarta Premium Suite 2004] , generally considered to be the second stage of development after infancy and beforechild hood occurring predominantly during the ages of 12 to 36 months. [ [http://www.aplaceofourown.org/glossary.php?l=T Glossary] , A place of our own] During this period, the child learns a great deal about social roles and develops motor skills. To "toddle" is to walk unsteadily; the term "cruising" is used for toddlers who cannot toddle but must hold onto something while walking.The toddler developmental timeline shows what an average toddler can do at what age. Times vary greatly from child to child. It is common for some toddlers to master certain skills (such as walking) well before other skills (like talking). Even close siblings can vary greatly in the time taken to achieve each key milestone.
This age is sometimes referred to as 'the terrible twos', [ [http://www.safekids.co.uk/terrible-twos-explained.html] ] [ [http://ukfamily.co.uk/community/adviceopedia/baby-toddler/behaviour/terrible-twos.html] ] because of the temper tantrums for which they are famous. This stage can begin as early as nine months old depending on the child and environment. The toddler is discovering that they are a separate being from their mother or caregiver and are testing their boundaries in learning the way the world around them works. This time between the ages of two and five when they are reaching for independence repeats itself during adolescence.
Most children are toilet trained while they are toddlers. In most Western countries, toilet training starts as early as 17 months for some while others are not ready to begin toilet training until they are three.
When toddlers can walk they are still often transported in a buggy, or stroller, when they are tired, or to increase speed.
Around 18 months, the toddler's vocabulary will greatly increase, and he or she may learn as many as 7-9 new words a day.
Overview table
See also
*
Baby walker
*Early childhood education References
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.
