Two to Three years

SKIP - Ministry of Social Development

Although two year olds don’t like change, they do start to calm down as they approach three and learn new skills. They start to talk a lot, have lots of energy and enjoy noise. They develop definite likes and dislikes with food, clothes, toys, etc. Some two year olds get a bit bossy or jealous.

You can:

• give lots of praise when they do something well
• listen to what they are saying – and try to answer all those questions
• do things together that you enjoy
• give one instruction at a time – not a list
• give clear directions
• give them little jobs to do
• try to set a good example – your children copy what you do
• set clear limits and stick to them
• be consistent
• keep an eye out to see if they’re ready for toilet training
• explain why you don’t like something they are doing.

Talk lots – praise their talking.