My Toddler

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Handling Endless Questions from Your Toddler

Toddlers are at the stage where they constantly ask questions, particularly from the age of 4 onwards. Some of the most common being ‘What’s this?’ and ‘Why?’. It is important to keep in mind why your toddler is asking you these questions, which could be to: Understand the world around them Figure out how things …

Language Development Milestones: 2-3 Years

Between 2 and 3 years of age your toddler’s language develops very quickly. You may not be able to understand everything they say, but as their language skills develop you’ll begin to understand how they see their world. Language development at 2-3 years By the time your toddler is 2 years old they are likely …

Language Development Milestones: 1-2 Years

It is an exciting time for any parent to see their little one start to understand what is being said to them and to hear their vocabulary grow! The following highlights key language developmental milestones by age: At around 12 months, your child may: Speak approximately 1-3 recognisable words, and understand around 10 words Understand …

Eating Out and Toddler Mealtime Manners

Ever wondered how the spaghetti got on the ceiling? A toddler’s independent and curious behaviour at mealtimes can sometimes be a source of stress for parents. Start mealtime manners early It’s not uncommon for toddlers to express their new-found independence at mealtimes – with running around the room, wasting food and making a mess being …

Bath Time Fears

A toddler’s bath time can often result in more water being on the floor than in the tub! For some toddlers the word bath or the sound of the taps running evokes fear and can bring them to tears, while others may refuse to take a bath when they reach their second year of life. …

Symptoms of Allergies and Irritants

Allergies and irritants can cause skin conditions, like eczema or hives. Here’s a guide to a few of the most common conditions and what you can do to manage them. Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) appears as dry, scaly skin or small red bumps that can become inflamed when scratched. A huge range of irritants …

Is Your Toddler’s Skin Telling You Something?

Skin conditions are becoming increasingly common in children, but identifying the cause can be tricky. So What Should You Do If You Notice Inflamed, Red, Dry Or Itchy Skin? Your toddler’s skin can be very sensitive. Small changes in their environment such as the weather, bath water temperature or even a new washing powder can …

Rewarding Your Toddler

Most adults love to get rewards, especially recognition when they do good work. Likewise, rewarding your toddler, when they do something you approve of, can make them feel good and have positive benefits on their behaviour. Rewards Versus Bribes Rewards are different to bribes: A reward comes after your toddler has done something which you …

If Your Toddler Won’t Eat Meat

They Just Don’t Like The Taste Meat has a distinctive taste that toddlers either love or hate. If your little one is turning their nose up at meat, try serving with a sauce such as Greek yoghurt (makes a nice dip!), tomato sauce, hommus or avocado dip. This provides a bridging flavour, as well as …

Feeding Protein to Your Kids

Protein is an essential nutrient for the growth of healthy little bodies. Lean meat, fish, chicken, eggs and dairy are all good sources of protein which provide the building blocks for growing muscles, skin, hair and nails. It also helps bodies repair and fight disease. Red meat such as beef and lamb, and white meat …

Fussy Eaters

Tips For Fussy Eaters It is reasonable for your toddler to develop their own taste preferences so don’t expect them to like everything on offer. Give them a day or two before trying the same taste experience again, to see if they develop a renewed interest. Be aware of not letting your own preferences and …

Wrap-free Lunchbox

Kiddies love things in colourful packets decorated with their favourite character. They’re super convenient on the go but many aren’t very healthy and they also create unnecessary waste. Daycare centres and schools are starting to embrace the ‘nude food’ revolution by adopting a ‘packet and wrap-free’ food policy, which is great for the environment and …

Superb Foods Part 5: Outstanding Oats

These healthy grains can make a valuable addition to your child’s diet, so find out how you can include them in more of your meals. What Are The Health Benefits? Oats are a natural wholegrain food that is a source of slow release or low GI carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for active toddlers. It has …

Superb Foods Part 4: Healthy Hummus

Learn clever ways to include this tasty and traditional Middle Eastern dip in your recipe rotation. What Are  The Health Benefits? Hummus is made from chickpeas, lemon, garlic and oil and is a source of protein, fibre and iron, which makes it a great alternative for little ones refusing to eat meat, chicken and fish. …

Superb Foods Part 3: Amazing Avocado

Avocados are a nutrient-dense food, so learn how to get the most out of these fabulous fruits. What Are The Health Benefits? Avocados are a source of fibre, folate, potassium, vitamins E and C, and contain healthy monounsaturated fat. Advantages Avocados have a mild creamy taste that most littlies will enjoy. They are also a …

Superb Foods Part 2: Yummy Yoghurt

Find out how this delicious dairy delight can make a nutritious addition to mealtimes. What Are The Health Benefits? Yoghurt is an excellent source of protein and a highly absorbable form of calcium for strong teeth and bones, which is especially important for little ones growing at such rapid rates. Yoghurt also contains millions of …

Superb Foods Part 1: Excellent Eggs

Eggs are considered nature’s little vitamin capsule. Discover what makes these little gems truly exceptional. What Are The Health Benefits? Eggs have been given the Heart Foundation tick of approval. They’re power-packed with ten vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fats plus the highest quality protein in our food supply. Just one egg provides almost half the …

Fibre and Your Child’s Diet

Most of us know about the importance of getting enough fibre in our diets. It is suggested toddlers have 14g of fibre each day to help keep their digestive system healthy. Below are some suggestions on how you can add fibre into your toddler’s diet. Cereals and Grains Select wholemeal, wholegrain, high fibre white or …

Combatting the Terrible Twos

Tantrums are very common in toddlers and pre-schoolers and are just one of the ways young children express their feelings as they begin to learn to make sense of the world around them. What are tantrums? Does screaming, crying, holding their breath, throwing themselves on the ground or running away sound familiar? These are just …

Toddler Discipline

What Is Discipline? Discipline for your toddler is about teaching and learning in an environment where they feel safe and secure. Discipline provides the skills for your toddler to learn about how to live in society and to get along with others. Discipline is not ‘punishment, or physical punishment’. Physical punishment is of no use …

Healthy Happy Party Time

Planning your child’s party can be a fun and exciting time, but how do you feed all those hungry mouths and keep it tasty and nutritious? These five simple tips can help make sure everything runs smoothly while providing a few healthy options for little partygoers. 1. Serve Food in the Correct Order Stagger foods …

Filling the Nutritional Gaps

The typical age of food fussiness is 18 months to 3 years. Even though it can be challenging, it is important to try and maintain a healthy balance for your toddler during this period. Missing out on essential nutrients such as iron and zinc may have an effect on your little one’s appetite, behaviour and …

Sleep and Your Toddler

As your child grows up their sleep needs and patterns will change. It’s during sleep that hormones responsible for growth are most active. Most toddlers need about 10 – 12 hours of sleep at night, with one or two naps during the day of about 1 – 2 hours long. If you are faced with …

Screen Time

Screen time is the time spent watching TV or using the computer, a mobile phone, tablet or any other electronic device. The National Physical Activity Recommendations for Children (1-5 years) recommend those: Under 2 years, should not use any electronic devices Between 2-5 years, should be limited to less than 1 hour per day. Why …

Reading Time for You and Your Toddler

Little ones love story time and reading together can be a fun activity. It can provide an opportunity for some great quality time together and includes many benefits for your toddler, including: Helping them to learn about the world around them Developing their literacy skills, including listening, speaking, reading and writing Improving their concentration and …

Overcoming Shyness

Each toddler has their own personality and temperament, this can be particularly clear when out in social situations. Some will appear to be outgoing while others may become withdrawn and shy. The majority of toddlers may become shy in different social situations such as at a birthday party or in the playground, but most will …

Using Your Leftovers for Little Ones

When you need that instant meal for hungry toddlers, a quick reheat of leftovers provides a healthy nutrient-packed meal that your little ones will be familiar with. Tasty Tips For Using Leftovers Spaghetti Bolognese for dinner? Sprinkle leftover mince with grated cheese and use as a filling for jacket potato Serve leftover mince in a …

Leftovers for the Lunch Box

Dinner leftovers are a great and convenient option when you need that instant lunch for hungry little ones. Ideas for Cold Leftovers If your toddler is in daycare or attending pre-school or kindy, foods that are still tasty when served cold are ideal to ensure your they are eating foods they enjoy. Zucchini slice and …

Healthy Lunchboxes for Childcare

Some childcare centres will provide your toddler with all their food for the day, while others may only provide snacks. Alternatively, it may even be you and your family who will supply all their meals and snacks for the day. If you are providing your child’s food, here are some healthy snack and lunch options …

Iron Deficiency in Toddlers

What is Iron? Iron is an important dietary mineral that is needed for many functions in the body, including: Transporting oxygen around the body Providing energy Brain development Supporting the immune system in fighting infections. What Causes Iron Deficiency? Children are at an increased risk of becoming iron deficient as their increased needs are not …

Ear Care

How Should I Care For My Toddler’s Ears? To clean your toddler ears, simply wipe the outside of the ear with a damp, soft cloth. It is not recommended to use cotton buds as they can damage the ear and push wax further in. If you are concerned about a build-up of wax in their …

Swimming Lessons

Swimming is a fundamental skill that’s great for your toddler’s health, wellbeing and confidence. It is not only one of the best ways to cool off on a hot day, it can also help your toddler to enjoy the Australian outdoor lifestyle. However, your child’s safety should always be at the forefront of your mind …

Planning a Holiday with Your Toddler

Going on a holiday can be great fun. It’s also a chance to spend lots of time together as a family and a great opportunity to watch your toddler experience new things for the first time. If you plan ahead with their needs in mind, your holiday is likely to be a much more enjoyable …

Out and About Safety

There is something special about watching your little one filled with excitement as they run around the playground. As exciting and fun as it can be, your child’s safety is something to always have at the front of your mind. Whilst most accidents will occur at home, serious accidents can also happen when you’re out …

Setting a Sleep Routine for Your Toddler

You’ve probably known what it’s like to have an overtired toddler. They can be very difficult to handle as they get cranky and often, there will be many tears involved. Generally, toddlers aged 1-2 years need 13-14 hours of sleep within a 24 hour cycle with 1-2 hour naps in the day. Toddlers’ sleep is …

Traffic and Driveway Safety

Traffic safety Crossing the road and navigating through car parks safely can be risky for adults let alone a toddler. Children need active adult supervision up until 10 to 11 years of age and while your toddler may begin to remember the rules about crossing roads, they are too young to understand them. Here are …

Bath Time Safety

Bath time can be great fun for your toddler. However, it also poses two major risks: burns and drowning. It is extremely important to always take this seriously and supervise your little one when they are in the bath. Burns and Scalds Young children have sensitive skin which means they can be burnt or scalded …

Preventing Falls at Home

At some point, your little one will take a tumble. Toddlers are likely to fall because their heads are heavier in proportion to the rest of their body and they are still trying to find their balance. Since you can’t always prevent your toddler from falling, the key is to minimise the potential for injury …

Fear of the Hairdresser

Some toddlers can find a visit to the hairdresser terrifying! Some reasons for this may be: A complete stranger is holding shiny sharp scissors very close to their ears and neck Being wrapped in a cape and having wet hair Attracting attention from strangers Sitting in a large, unfamiliar chair and environment The sound of …

Toddler Snack Attack

Did you know that your toddler’s stomach is about the size of their fist? With such a small tummy, it is difficult for toddlers to achieve their nutritional requirements in only 3 main meals per day. Snacks throughout the day are an important part of their diet and help to provide them with all the …

Toddler Tantrums

Tantrums are a normal part of being a toddler. Most children between the ages of 1 and 3 have a number of these each week which can be very exhausting and frustrating for you as a parent. Identifying possible triggers for tantrums and avoiding these can potentially help you to prevent them from occurring. Here …

Toilet Training

Teaching your toddler to use the toilet is a major milestone and the thought of no more nappy changes is probably a very welcome one. Some children get the hang of using the toilet right away while others need a little more patience and support. If you attempt to toilet train your toddler when they’re …

Teaching Toddlers to Share

Toddlers are in their own little world and they lack the understanding that another child’s feelings might get hurt if they grab a toy off them. They only think of things being theirs, neither yours nor ours. If your toddler is possessive, it doesn’t mean they are being selfish. Around the age of two, they …

Drinking Water

You may worry that your toddler is not getting enough fluids as they may not be drinking enough water throughout the day. This is an understandable concern, as approximately half of the human body is made up of water, which is lost throughout the day through sweat, urine and breathing. It is difficult to estimate …

5 Rules of Engagment

The 5 Rules of Engagement provide a few suggested changes that can mean that dinner time becomes a place of enjoyment and food discovery, rather than the nightly battle field. Rule 1: Timing Is Everything The timing of your little one’s meals is more important than you think. Little appetites may not last as long …

Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is a comforting habit for many little ones and a common behaviour which is healthy and normal for infants. The majority of children will give up their attachment to their thumb between the ages of two and four years of age. If your child continues to suck their thumb for a long period …

Tips For Growing A Healthy Toddler

If you eat fruit and vegetables then there is a greater chance of your toddler eating fruit and vegetables. If you or your partner screws up their face when they see broccoli then your little one will probably follow suit. Children need encouragement and guidance to eat well so it is important that you lead …

Toddler Food Groups

Setting Up a Healthy Balance Variety in a toddler’s diet is essential for healthy growth and development. Offering your child a variety of foods throughout the day will provide them with the energy and nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals) they need. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommends foods should be given from each of …

Toddler Growth Charts

WHO Growth Charts In 2006, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released their growth charts for tracking the growth and development of young children. These were based on the measurements of healthy, breastfed babies from six different countries. They used their findings to create growth curves, which they viewed as the optimal growth of young children. …

Meal Planner for Kids

Setting up a healthy eating plan for kids has never been more important, especially in the early toddler years. Good food habits learnt in childhood can last a lifetime. To help give your toddler a balanced and nutritious diet, below are some tips on planning meals – as well as our free downloadable meal planner …

The 5 Food Groups

For your toddler’s growth and development it is important that they eat a balanced diet. All foods can be put into one of five food groups and the key is to enjoy a variety of nutritious foods from each of these five groups. Vegetables Vegetables make up one of the largest food groups, providing your …

The Australian Food Guidelines

What are the Australian Dietary Guidelines? The Five Foods Groups in Australia The 5 Principles of Australian Dietary Guidelines Foods to Avoid for Toddlers Serving Sizes Building Healthy Habits for Life What are the Australian Dietary Guidelines? ‘Eat for Health’ – the Australian Dietary Guidelines were reviewed and released in February 2013. The guidelines provide …

Toddlers Avoiding Food Groups

Setting Up a Healthy Balance Toddlers are growing and developing quickly, which is why they need the right balance of energy and nutrients from a wide variety of nutritious foods from the 5 food groups. However getting the right balance of energy and nutrients can sometimes be difficult. Parents often worry that their child is …

The Role of Milk When Weaning

Milk When Introducing Solids Breast milk or formula should continue to remain the main source of nutrition until 12 months of age. Infants obtain the majority of their energy from breast milk or infant formula because the energy contribution of complementary foods is initially small. Solid foods are sometimes referred to as ‘complementary foods’ because …

Keeping Your Toddler Safe in the Bedroom

As your toddler grows older they will become more mobile and you may experience your little one climbing out of their cot, which is a sign that they’re not so little anymore! Moving them into a ‘big bed’ now means your child can climb out of bed whenever they like. This means it is very …

Moving Your Toddler from a Cot to a Bed

Moving from a cot to a bed is a milestone in your toddler’s life, but unfortunately it’s not always an easy one. It can be difficult to know if your toddler is ready to move to a ‘big’ bed. Some signs which show that your toddler is ready to make the move include, needing to …

Teaching Them How to Get Dressed

When you are trying to get out the door in the morning and you’re running late it probably seems easiest to dress your child yourself. However, letting your toddler get dressed themselves is an important skill. As this will help teach your little one independence and help them feel more confident once they know how …

Preparing Toddlers for a New Sibling

Preparing your toddler for the addition of a new brother or sister can be difficult. Each child has their own personality and may react differently to the arrival of a new sibling. Most families have a gap of 1½ to 2½ years between the first and second child, and unfortunately this timing can be challenging …

Time to Give Up the Dummy?

It can be hard to know the right time your child should let go of the dummy. Some children will decide on their own, while other little ones may get very attached and therefore, giving it up could prove to be a challenge. Around two years old is the ideal age, however there is little …

Sibling Rivalry

We have all heard the expression “they fight like brother and sister”. Whether your toddlertoddler’ss siblings are older or younger some rivalry is to be expected and is actually an important life skill for them to learn. It can teach your children how to sort out problems and work through conflict and helps them to …

Weaning: 12 – 24 Months

What to expect during toddler weaning Now your baby is a toddler they may be ready for more than the small finger foods of Weaning Stage 3. Between 12 and 18 months, your toddler’s growth has slowed markedly from their first year. What this means is that their appetite may also reduce in size, which …

Biting and Toddlers

Finding out that your toddler has been bitten or has bitten another child can be a distressing situation, but it’s not an unusual one and is a fairly common behaviour for children aged 1 ½ to 3 years of age. Reasons your toddler may bite include: Using their mouth to explore things around them as …

Separation Anxiety

There will probably come a time when your toddler will be afraid to be apart from you, such as when they need to be left with a babysitter or when you leave them at day care. For most young children this may begin at around six to eight months of age, once they are able …

Starting Child Care

Making the big step to start your little one at child care as well as finding the right place can be challenging. There is no such thing as the perfect moment to begin child care. You need to consider what suits your family and where you feel comfortable. To assist in the decision of choosing …

Staying Healthy in Child Care

The spread of infectious disease can be prevented and the three most important ways to do this are: Washing and drying hands thoroughly – A person can show no signs of an illness and an infection can still spread. Washing and drying hands thoroughly dilutes, loosens and rinses off germs Exclusion of sick children and …

How to Host a Successful Playdate

Your toddler making friends for the first time is a special moment to be a part of and it is also helps them to develop their social skills as they learn to play with others. Play dates are a great way for your toddler to interact and share with others and can also be an …

Trying New Foods

My toddler will try a new food most of the time. Yes: It’s great that your toddler is adventurous to try new foods and whilst they will still have their favourites, it is important to maintain the variety by offering new foods all the time. No: Just like their favourite pair of pyjamas or sleep …

A Varied Diet For Toddlers

My toddler enjoys a great variety of foods and will eat from all food groups. Yes: A balanced diet is important for your toddler’s growth and sets them up for great eating habits for years to come. Keep encouraging your little one to eat a variety of foods from each food group to best meet …

The New Dietary Guidelines

Eat for Health’ or the new Australian Dietary Guidelines – reviewed and released in February 2013 – helps you to provide your toddler with the essential energy and nutrients they need to thrive. It includes serving sizes based on your child’s age and gender, with the recommended portions offering a wide variety of foods to …

Toddler Toys

Toys can help your toddler learn and explore the world around them. These don’t need to be elaborate or complex. Often, everyday items around the house can bring them much enjoyment, e.g. an open top empty box or the laundry basket. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind when choosing toys for …

Your Toddler’s Imaginary Friend

Have you ever been asked to save a seat or open the door for your toddler’s friend but you have no idea who they are talking about? Two out of three children create imaginary friends, so don’t be surprised if your toddler has one at some point. Imaginary friends usually appear when a toddler is …

Dealing with Nightmares

Have you ever woken up scared or upset from a really bad dream? Did you know most toddlers start to experience nightmares or bad dreams from around the age of two? Nightmares can make your toddler feel frightened and upset. They may be about something imaginary like a monster or something very real in their …

Bath Time with Your Toddler

A toddler’s bath time can sometimes result in more water on the floor than in the tub. Some toddlers start to refuse to take a bath when they reach their second year of life. For some the very word ‘bath’ or just the sound of the taps running can bring them to tears. Your toddler …

Rewarding Your Toddler

As adults we all love to get rewards, especially when we receive recognition of good work. Likewise, rewarding your toddler, when they do something you approve of, can have positive benefits on their behaviour. Toddlers seek their parent’s approval and it makes them feel good when they receive it. Additionally, using rewards as a positive …

How to Survive Supermarket Shopping with Your Toddler

Visiting the supermarket with a toddler in tow can be a stressful experience for many parents. Many of us have either seen a toddler meltdown or have experienced one ourselves at the supermarket. Below are some tips to help make a trip to the supermarket an enjoyable experience: Before the Supermarket Make time at home …

Toddlers Avoiding Food Groups

Setting Up a Healthy Balance Providing the right balance of energy and key nutrients is a high priority for mums with toddlers, with research showing that almost all mums (99%) think it’s important their toddler is getting a balanced diet with the right nutrients.’ Variety in a toddler’s diet is essential for healthy growth and …

Traffic and Driveway Toddler Safety

Traffic Safety Navigating across roads and through car parks safely can be precarious for adults let alone a toddler. So it is a good idea to start early in practising traffic safety rules with your little one. Even children up until the age of the 10 or more will need active adult supervision. While our …

Preventing Burns and Scalds

Burns and scalds are a leading cause of serious injury in young children – and being mobile and keen to explore everything around them makes toddlers particularly vulnerable to this type of injury. Burns and scalds The most common causes of burns in young children are scalds from things such as hot drinks and foods, …

Swimming Lessons

Swimming is one of the best ways to cool off in the summer heat. It is also great for your childs’ health, wellbeing and confidence and it teaches them a respect for the water. Swimming and water familiarisation is a fundamental skill that can help parents and tots enjoy the Australian outdoor lifestyle. But there …

Active Toddlers

The National Physical Activity Recommendations for Children advise toddlers (1-3 years) should be physically active every day, for at least 3 hours, over the course of the day. Physical activity is essential for your toddler’s healthy growth and development. With 25% of Australian children now considered to be overweight or obese, it is more important …

Motor Development: 1 – 2 Years

We have all heard it said, “They grow up so fast”. That is because toddlers are constantly growing and developing and this usually follows an expected pattern. Your toddler’s gross motor skills, such as crawling and walking, will progress as the large muscles in their bodies’ develop. The smaller muscles in their body, such as …

The Role of Milk

Milk when introducing solids Breast milk or formula should continue to remain the main source of nutrition until 12 months of age. Infants obtain the majority of their energy from breast milk or infant formula because the energy contribution of complementary foods is initially small. Solid foods are sometimes referred to as complementary foods’ because …

Toddler Food Groups

Foods are grouped together mainly due to their similarity in nutrients. The aim of this is to encourage a variety of consumption across the five food groups each day in proportions that meet with dietary guidelines. Food Group 1 – Breads and Cereals This group comes from grains like wheat, oats, rice, rye, barley, millet …