Right now your toddler likely has a strong wish to do
things for herself and be independent but she lacks
the ability to satisfy these wishes and needs. She is
not mature enough to bathe herself as much as she wants
to; neither is she skilled enough to undress herself
or walk on a busy street without holding your hand.
Often frustration and anger sets in and that results
in tantrums... The typical 18 month old tries to prove
she is maturing by refusing to let you control her;
almost every issue becomes a battle. At every opportunity
she says a defiant 'No'. Her need to assert her independence
is so strong that she even says no to things she wants.
You might conclude that she doesn't even know what no
means. She most definitely does. It is just that she
wants to defy you on principle and wants to have her
way too. So her solution is simple - she does both!
Things your toddler can do
AT THIS STAGE
• use three words
• point to a desired object
Things your toddler will
probably be able to do AT THIS STAGE
• run
• use a spoon/fork but not exclusively
• point to 1 body part when asked
Things your toddler may possibly
do AT THIS STAGE
• kick a ball forward
• follow a 2-step command without gestures
Things your toddler may even
be able to do AT THIS STAGE
• identify 1 picture by naming
• use 50+ single words
Emotionally, children this age demonstrate a variety
of emotions and behaviors including pleasure, warmth,
assertiveness and curiosity. They understand a few limits,
are able to play and explore away from parents; enjoy
parental affection. At eighteen months children are
able to communicate their wishes and their intentions
and are beginning the imitative and symbolic use of
toys.
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