Sign out
Two-year-olds are often curious and full of energy. Your child may want to open every drawer, test how things work, and often test your patience. Help your toddler through this exciting year by giving love and setting limits.
To get your child ready to potty train, give them their own little potty. Or you could get a child-sized toilet seat that fits over your toilet.
Explain to your child that "pee" and "poop" go into the toilet. Give your child hugs and kisses when they use the potty.
Keeping your child safe
- Always use a car seat. Install it in the back seat.
- Watch your child around water, including bathtubs.
- Know which foods cause choking, like grapes and hot dogs.
- Keep hot items out of your child's reach to avoid burns.
- Put sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on your child.
Making your home safe
- Cover electrical outlets, and lock windows.
- Check smoke detectors once a month.
- Change to a toddler bed if your child climbs out of the crib.
- If you live in a place that was built before 1978, it may have lead paint. Tell your doctor.
- Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.
Parenting your child
- Let your child do things without help, like getting dressed.
- Know the things your child can't do, such as sitting still for a long time.
- Try to ignore whining and other behavior that isn't harmful.
- Help your child brush their teeth every day. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Try to read to your child every day.
Getting vaccines
Make sure your child gets all the recommended vaccines.
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
