“She crying,” your toddler explains with a worried frown on her face. She’s noticed her playmate in distress and come to you with her concern. Her sense of empathy is beginning to develop. That means that she readily reacts to other people’s displays of happiness, joy, pain or sadness. And she’s ready and willing to use new words to describe how she’s feeling, too! “I happy.” “I sad.” “I no want to go.” Perhaps she’s exhibiting a little bit of defiance? That’s actually a positive thing! She’s showing her healthy independence by sometimes resisting adult control.

Watch your toddler when he becomes frustrated. Does he always come to you for help, or is he beginning to work through some roadblocks on his own? Being able to self-soothe and regulate some of his initial impulses and big feelings is a definite sign of emotional growth! He still relies on you for so much, but he’s also learning to rely on himself, too.

Is it time for her to play with the stuffed dog, or is it her friend’s turn? When a toddler tug-of-war ensues, help your little one navigate the conflict with calm reassurance. As you suggest different ways for her to create a win-win situation, she’s learning how to cross waters that aren’t always calm. And that’s a life skill that will keep her afloat for years to come!

He trusts that when you leave him in someone else’s care, you’re coming back to get him. He feels safe in the company of other familiar adults. And he’s beginning to understand how to build his first friendships. Your toddler is building relationships — and the skills they require — that will serve him now and in the future!