Encouraging Self Care Skills

Encouraging Self Care Skills

Children begin as helpless infants, unable to do anything for themselves, not even hold up their own heads. As newborns grow, they become more and more capable of doing things for themselves. Soon, your child will no longer need you to change her diaper, she will be able to dress herself and feed herself, and before too long, she will even be able to serve herself breakfast. It can be saddening to watch your little one grow up and become more independent, but the skills she is learning are necessary for her personal and social development.

After your baby's first birthday, a more independent personality will begin to emerge. Your toddler will use the word “no” often to test his limits and will most likely want to attempt many things on his own. He will learn to undress, starting with his socks and pants. Toddlers are just beginning to develop the hand and eye coordination needed to dress and undress so a doll like the Dapper Dan Dress-Up Friend can help.

Feeding skills are also beginning to develop between 12 and 18 months. Your toddler has most likely learned to feed herself using her fingers at this age. Now she will begin to learn how to eat with a spoon or fork. Offer utensils to your little one at each meal, but don't push their use. Most toddlers will imitate older kids and parents at meal time to make their first attempts at feeding themselves. This can be a very messy learning process, but be patient, refrain from feeding your toddler, and encourage her efforts.

Between 18 months and two years, your toddler will have probably accomplished the task of undressing himself. Once your little one finally has it done, he will most likely spend a lot of time running around without his clothes. He is proud of his new feat and soon, he will learn to put his clothes on as well. Encourage your child to dress his stuffed animals in oversize capes that slip easily over the head and provide him with plenty of large, easy to put on clothing for dress-up play. Older children's clothes or adult sized shirts with buttons and zippers are ideal for practicing.

By two and a half, your young child will be capable of doing a number of things for herself and will want to try to do many more. At this age, most toddlers can undress themselves, including taking off their shoes, and can possibly put some clothing on unassisted. Begin to promote healthy hygiene habits at this age, like covering mouths and washing hands. This is also a typical time for potty training. Allow your toddler to do things like blowing her nose or brushing her teeth on her own, but always check behind her.

By the time your child is three, he will be ready for more responsibility and will be eager to help with grown-up tasks. Easy to put on shoes with Velcro or zippers are perfect for this age. Allow your three year old to help set the table and brush his hair. With your help, he can even begin to pour his own milk and serve himself food.

All children develop at their own rate. These are guidelines for when these accomplishments typically occur, but your child may reach them faster or slower. If you are concerned about your toddler's development, consult with your pediatrician.

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