What I need to know about a toddler/pre-schooler

[RainInanna]

Ok, as you may know, I am in the process of adopting my nephew who turned 2 years old on November 1st. I'm excited but concerned too - feeling like I'm jumping into the deep end with no idea what to expect with two boys and one of them being a toddler.

Do you have any good sites to share? I've got tons bookmarked for babies but it's harder finding toddler stuff. General stuff is useful, so is specific stuff about fears, making attachments, discipline, managing two little ones, etc.

[pandrous]

glue, screw, nail or staple every thing down....

[Tanya]

1. they know what "no" means
2. they feed on hugs
3. do not feed them anything both sweet and red unless its an apple
4. If its possible to spill it... they will... over a white rug/blouse if you own one
5. bedtime... every toddler needs a well enforced one.

[RainInanna]

My 9 month old knows what "no" means too, he just tends to consider whether he'll pay attention to it or try anyway and see what happens. :lol:

Luckily no white here, I spill too much myself for that :)

[WolfPup522]

Ok, it's been awhile since my daughter is a teenager, but from what I remember: be prepared for a million questions. Toddlers want to know "why?". I'm sure you've already figured this out with your baby but a routine is very important. Toddlers react much better to situations if they know what to expect. Something I learned from my sister - sign language is an EXCELLENT tool for toddlers who think that "my my waaaaaaaa" is clearly "I would love to have some juice, please". Her kids didn't really go through a 'terrible two' phase because they were able to communicate with her through simple sign language. Oh yeah, and one more thing... if you say "Shit!", they will remember it and repeat it and at the most inappropriate and embarrasing time!

Hope that helps and good luck! I really think what you are doing is amazing.

[WolfPup522]

Oh yeah, and if you have any specific issues, learning questions, etc. please feel free to ask me. My very good friend is a teacher in the toddler class at the local day care center. She is amazing with little ones and I would be happy to pick her brain for you if the need arises.

[Lyrien]

What I need to know about a toddler/pre-schooler

Never, never close your eyes.

Other than that, I like this advice:

glue, screw, nail or staple every thing down....

[Athena-Nadine]

The world is one big scientific experiment.

[Lorrie]

Get down on the floor, and have a look around. See things from his point of view. You can learn alot this way, and while you are down there, take a good look around for danger points.

[Brónach Druid]

I recently was in a similar position. My kids are both college age and I was suddenly caring for a family members two year old. I don't know of any good websites, but on a personal level I think patience is the key for this age. Two year olds are just discovering themselves. Constantly testing the waters of what is acceptable behavior and exploring their own independence. She was a like my shadow when she was here, she loved to help in any activities I was doing, dishes, putting clothes away, sweeping and helping put the groceries away. Also enjoyed exploring activities, "bug hunting", finding different kinds of rocks, playdough.... believe it or not could keep her busy for a long time! I also found routine to be a big positive although I guess that is true with any age to some degree. :p
Anyway, congrats on your new edition. I hope the adoption process goes smoothly! Best of luck to all of you with the adjustment! :)

[Tanya]

crayons,picture books, legos, coloring books, blocks... all great ways to entertain a child that age while you go to the toilet or make a phone call