TODDLER
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
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Having conversations with your toddler teaches them about language, empathy, and shows them that it is important to be curious! And, very importantly, when we model how to be attentive listeners, kids learn respectful communication…and that we listen when someone else is talking and we wait our turn to speak.
Asking questions helps you get to know and understand your toddler better. It also gives you a way to lavish your child with the gift of your time and attention, which helps boost your toddler’s cooperation. I call this feeding the meter.
When you ask your toddler questions, you make them feel like winners. It shows that you are interested in their opinions, that their thoughts are respected. This sets their expectations for the way they want to be treated in relationships with others.
Books are a great conversation-starter! Reading is a way to feed a toddler’s brain and it is a sweet opportunity to snuggle close and make your relationship even stronger. The questions you ask about books will vary based on your toddler’s age.
As part of your bedtime routine, make time to ask your toddler about their favourite parts of the day and about what they are most looking forward to tomorrow. In the moments right before dozing off, your toddler’s mind is a little sponge, soaking up your words. Asking questions that make your toddler think about all of the best parts of the day help them drift off to sleep feeling smart and loved!
Remember, it is hard to be a toddler! Toddlers are at a big disadvantage compared to grownups…they are smaller, weaker, and have less power than the adults around them. They spend a lot of the day losing! By asking your toddler questions—and showing that you care about their answers—you help them feel super smart!
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
