A two year old toddler is able to do simple tasks without your help. The baby’s realized that he/she is no longer an extension of you, so don’t be shocked when the little one develops a sense of independence. Sometimes though, parents tend to misjudge their toddlers because they don’t know the characteristics of a 2-year-old. So, know this about your child:
Terrible twos expected behavior
- Tantrums every day and everywhere. This’s probably the first thing to alert you that the terrible twos have begun. Your toddler has feelings and emotions like you. Unfortunately, they don’t know how to express themselves; hence they result in tantrums.
- Your baby doesn’t know how to share, thus don’t be shocked when you don’t get a bite of their snacks. Read here to learn how to teach your baby how to share.
- Since 2-year-olds want to feel independent, they insist on doing some tasks by themselves—E.g. wearing shoes and picking their treats at the supermarket.
- Your child loves and enjoys playing with other children (parallel play); thus, keep the play dates coming.
Benefits of playdates
- The little one will learn new words.
- It’s an excellent opportunity to learn virtues like sharing, respect, and teamwork
- Games stimulate both the mind and the body.
- Your child will have fun
- Although the infant you brought home was delicate and completely vulnerable, the toddler in your arms now will demand to have their way. Nevertheless, be careful about how you react to tantrums! If the baby knows that you give in each time he has a bad temper, he’ll take advantage of you.
- Your baby learns to pull hair, hit, or bite other people when upset. However, a two-year-old will show sensitivity to other people’s emotions if they’re trained to do so.
- He/she starts to differentiate gender; hence the child can separate boys and girls. This doesn’t come automatically. You have to teach your baby the difference though visual aids.
- Expect the young one to follow the routine you started after birth without a hustle. For instance, when pre-bedtime activities begin, they know that it’s time to sleep. So, unless there’re some distractions, you should have no problem putting the child to sleep.
- Also, you’ll notice that your child has preferences among people, objects, and places. Plus, they’ll be shy ad uncomfortable around strangers
- If you’re raising a girl, she’ll begin tidying up, trying on make-up, and cleaning after observing you. A boy will also try to do things like the dad.
- A two-year-old can remember stuff that happened in their past. E.g. when you get home from a road trip, expect the child to talk about that experience in the future.
- Your child doesn’t know the difference between reality and fantasy.
Take-Home
Kindly don’t expect to see all these characteristics at once. If adults exhibit various personalities, so do children. Thus, ensure that you bond with your child to learn their nature. If you feel that your baby doesn’t behave like most two-year-olds, consult a specialist.
