Physical Health & Growth

Your toddler is undergoing a huge transformation – from needy infant to little kid on the go!

She’s learning to walk; to dress and undress herself; to participate in bath, bed, and meal times; and to be more conscious of her own safety and well-being.

Your 1-Year-Old

She still depends on you, of course, for gentle assistance and guidance, but she’s developing a sense of independence – with the fine and gross motor skills to match!

I Love Trying New Foods

From peas to potatoes, he’s moving on! Your toddler is eager to try new foods – some of which he likes more than others. And he wants to feed himself, thank you very much! He’s taking control of many aspects of his health and safety – from brushing his teeth to feeding himself snacks to avoiding dangerous situations. When you redirect a behavior that might cause him harm, he understands. And responds. And remembers.

Look for Signs of Learning at Your Child's Care

Are the children washing their hands and feeding themselves with minimal support? Are they able to express their physical needs freely? And do the teachers respond? Stay through lunchtime to see what the children eat and whether healthy meals are both modeled and encouraged.
Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes – I Know Those!

Do you remember how exciting it was when your baby could point to her nose? Well, that was just the beginning of the excitement. Now she’s able to identify so much more – from her elbows to her knees to the tips of her toes – and everything in between! Watch as she discovers how her body can groove to the beat of her favorite music, how she can use a spoon to feed herself and how stacking blocks is so much more fun and productive than throwing them… until it’s time to knock them down and start over!

Look for Signs of Learning at Your Child's Care

From dance parties to building blocks to shared songs, children should have a variety of materials and learning activities that engage all the senses.
I Can Walk On My Own… Almost!

He’s starting to walk! And if he isn’t there quite yet, it’s definitely right around the corner. Your toddler’s coordination and balance is improving every day. Hold his hands while he figures out what do do with his legs, and pretty soon, you won’t be able to keep up with him! Now is a fun time to watch how his fine motor skills are developing, too. Notice how he’s mastering his grip on pencils and crayons. And if you count them, you’re probably going to find that far more Cheerios are landing in his mouth than on the floor these days!

Look for Signs of Learning at Your Child's Care

Does the schedule allow for both finger painting and tumbling? The curriculum – and the physical space – should accommodate activities that promote both fine and gross motor development.
Let Me Dress Myself!

She’s an active participant now, not just a passive bystander. Your toddler is ready to help dress herself in the morning and undress herself at bath time or bedtime. Don’t be surprised if she grabs her toothbrush from your hand with a proprietary claim of “I do it!” And talk to her about the potty – she’s getting ready to understand and participate in how it all works. Her goal (and yours!): No more diapers!

Look for Signs of Learning at Your Child's Care

Is burgeoning independence supported with patience and instruction? Do the teachers allow the children to practice dressing and undressing? Do teachers communicate with children before they touch them or pick them up? And are they actively engaged and supported in their bathroom use — whether using the toilet or having their diaper changed?