Toddler

• What behavior do toddlers exhibit when stressed?

  Regression as a defense mechanism
• What are the stages of cognitive development in toddlers?

  • I: Sensory motor
  • T: Sensory motor (object orientation)
  • PS: Pre conceptual/pre operational (finding meaning)
  • SA: Operational/concrete (procedural learning)
  • A: Formal operational/formal (life situations)
• What are the stages of moral development in toddlers?

  • I: Amoral (primary caregiver)
  • T: Pre-conventional 1 (parents)
  • PS: Pre-conventional 2 (family & neighbors)
  • SA: Conventional (peers/teachers)
  • A: Post conventional (peer groups)
• What age range defines toddlers?

  1-3 years old
• What are the key concepts associated with toddlers' behavior?

  • P: Parallel, push & pull, parents
  • R: Rituals, routine, regression, rivalry
  • A: Autonomy vs shame & doubt, anal
  • I: Involve parents in care
  • S: Separation anxiety, sensory-motor, selfish
  • E: Environment, explore, elimination, egocentric
• What should toddlers be allowed to do in their environment?

  Explore and make simple decisions
• How should tantrums be managed in toddlers?

  By ignoring the tantrums
• What are the best toys for toddlers to enhance motor development?


  • Toys that can be pushed
  • Toys that can be pulled
• What do toddlers use as security objects?

  Pillows, blankets, and stuffed toys
• What are the stages of separation anxiety in toddlers?

  1. Protest (temper tantrums)
  2. Despair
  3. Denial
  4. Recovery
• What are the key aspects of toilet training for toddlers?

  • Remain dry for long periods
  • Walks well (sign of readiness)
  • Identifies wet from dry diaper
• What is bowel training in toddlers?

  • Starts at 1.5 years
  • Gained by 2.5 to 3 years
  • Use of potty chair, same time daily, no distractions
• What is bladder control in toddlers?

  • Gained by 2.5 to 3 years
  • Achieved by 3 to 5 years (average 4)
  • No fluids before bed, urinate before bed
• What should be avoided during bowel training?

  Distractions like food or toys
• What is the best sign for a toddler to undergo toilet training?

  Walking well
• What is the purpose of rituals for toddlers?

  They provide comfort and security