An 18 to 24 month old is trying hard to assert independence – expect behaviours that involve the words "no!" and "mine!" At this age, the typical toddler also:

• Enjoys playing alone for short periods of time
• Acts like she owns certain objects
• Likes to do things without help
• Helps with simple household chores
• Has trouble sharing. May hit, push, and grab to keep toys
• Demonstrates concern for others
• Shows fear, but can be reassured
• Shifts between doing things independently and wanting help or comfort
• Is watchful around adults he doesn’t know

Use everyday routines such as walks and mealtimes to talk about family and friends. This special time not only strengthens your bond – it nurtures and supports your child’s social and emotional growth.

Here are some more tips for helping your child to flourish socially and emotionally:

• Talk to your toddler ahead of time about new routines and events: "At playgroup, we will sing songs and listen to stories"
• Introduce your toddler to a playmate
• Watch your toddler while he plays with other children. At this age your toddler will be better at playing on his own
• Talk about the play of other children: "Look, Kim is building a block tower"
• Let your toddler help with chores, such as cleaning up spills, placing clothes in drawers, or putting away toys
• Model good manners: use "please" and "thank you"
• Continue to breastfeed
• Have fun with your toddler. Laughing together builds good feelings
• Talk about your toddler's emotions: "Your tears tell me you are feeling sad"
• Suggest ways to deal with feelings: "When you feel angry, come and get a grown up for help"
• Sing simple songs about emotions, such as If You're Happy and You Know It
• Read stories that explore emotions, and talk about them
• Offer your toddler choices to help her cope with her feelings: "You’re feeling sad, do you want to cuddle or be alone?"
• Talk about how others feel: "John is sad because you took his truck"
• If your toddler hurts another child, explain: "You cannot hurt others." Redirect your toddler's activity

Between 18 and 24 months your toddler may also:

• See herself as a separate person. Your toddler may say, “No, me do it”
• Put on simple clothing without help
• Have mood swings and tantrums
• Show aggressive behaviours such as biting and hitting
• Say "no" a lot, especially if he hears "no" frequently
• Sometimes share food, toys, and other items
• Become familiar with routines
• Be unhappy about any changes in routines
• Develop new fears
• Have a security toy or blanket