Developement-Toddler (one to three years)

Toddlers are becoming more independent, wanting to do things by themselves, in their own way and when they want to. At the same time, they need continual emotional support.
Toddlers tend to resist and find comfort in rituals and routines.
There are three areas of developement that typically indentify a child as a toddler - the ability to walk unassisted, the ability to communicate using words and a developing sense of self.
By the time a child reaches one they have usually developed a method of moving around - crawling, bottom shuffling, walking with an aid or walking alone.
Most children take their first steps at some stage between nine and twelve months and are walking well by the time they're 14 or 15 months, although it is perfectly normal if a child is not walking until 16 or 17 months (or sometimes even later).
At this stage they are no longer totally self-absorbed and are beginning to take an interest in other children, although they are not emotionally developed enough to form true friendships.

Special characteristics of a toddler:
-Toddlers are energetic and on the move.
-Toddlers are gaining control of their world by checking limits, causes and effects.
-Toddlers are active and curious.
-Toddlers feelings are intense and unpredictable.
-Toddlers are impulsive and lack self control.
-Toddlers seek social interaction and learn by imitating others.
-Toddlers learn by doing rather than being told.