Parents mostly focus on teaching toddlers the ABCs or numbers.
While these are important, there are some other valuable lessons that can make a big difference in their growth and understanding of the world.
These lessons help them connect with their emotions, understand their bodies, and communicate better.
Here are five things parents can teach toddlers that will shape their early years and set the stage for life.
1. How to communicate their basic needs
Before toddlers can master words, they need to understand how to express what they want or need. Teaching them simple phrases like “I’m hungry,” “I need water,” or “I’m tired” can help avoid frustration—for both them and you! Non-verbal communication, like pointing or using basic signs, can also be introduced early to help them express themselves.
Toddlers often struggle to make themselves understood. Helping them communicate their needs builds confidence and reduces tantrums.
2. Body parts and their names
Toddlers are curious about their bodies. Teach them the names of different body parts in a fun and engaging way. For example, you can sing songs or play games like “Where’s your nose?” It’s also important to introduce the concept of private parts and explain that these areas are personal and should not be touched by others.
Learning about their body helps toddlers develop self-awareness and boosts their vocabulary. It also sets a foundation for understanding personal boundaries and safety.
3. What emotions are and how to handle them
Toddlers experience big emotions, and they don’t always know what to do with them. Start by naming their emotions. For example, say, “You look angry,” or “I can see you’re sad.” Teach them simple ways to handle these feelings, like taking deep breaths when upset or asking for a hug when they’re feeling down.
Understanding emotions helps toddlers develop emotional intelligence. It also teaches them how to handle challenging feelings in a healthy way.
4. How to be kind and share with others
Toddlers are naturally focused on their own needs, but this is the perfect time to introduce the idea of kindness and sharing. Simple acts, like giving a toy to a friend or saying “thank you,” can be encouraged through positive reinforcement.
Learning kindness and sharing helps toddlers build strong relationships with others. It also makes them more compassionate individuals as they grow.
5. Safety rules
Safety is a crucial lesson for toddlers. Teach them simple rules like staying close to an adult in public places, not touching sharp objects, and looking both ways before crossing the street. You can explain these rules in a calm and repetitive way to help them remember.
Toddlers are naturally curious, but their curiosity can sometimes put them in danger. Teaching safety rules early on can help protect them from harm.
