Ten Things Toddlers Wish They Could Tell You

1. Walk in my small shoes.

Remember the children's game "Mother, May I?" One child played "Mother" while the rest started behind a line drawn on a sidewalk or a dusty lane. "Mother" stood in the distance with a second line in front of her. The first child to cross that line won.

Often, as the children took turns, they would beg, "Mother, may I take three giant steps?" Usually "Mother" would shake her head and say, "No, but you may take 10 baby steps." Even small children recognized that babies and toddlers had to take many, many steps with their short legs to keep up with big people.

A sad sight at shopping centers and grocery stores is a hurried mother carrying a baby and half dragging a toddler whose chubby little legs must run to keep up. If you're shopping with toddlers in tow, slow down. You're not going to be able to get all your shopping and errands done quickly. You should also take a stroller that will permit your toddler to ride when little legs tire.

2. My attention span is limited.

A child who reaches for things on shelves is not necessarily destructive just inquisitive. Sure, it's fun to meet and greet neighbors in supermarket aisles, but your toddlers aren't interested in catching up on all the latest news. They'd rather wander, explore, touch. Instead of spending 15 minutes chatting next to the Oreos and Ding Dongs, promise to call your friend when you get home.

3. I'm afraid of strangers.

Few children appreciate being passed from lap to lap. Most prefer getting to know new people a little at a time and on their terms. Be wary of forcing your toddler to accept strangers and new baby sitters immediately.

4. I'm not a pet or a trained seal.

"Come on, Honey, say Aunt Kathie."

"Show Mrs. Dennis how you play pat-a cake, Josh."

"Sing that little song you learned at church for Grandma."

These and other performance on demand statements place your toddler in a tough spot. Some small children delight in showing off. Others shrink away, risking a reprimand. If your child falls in the latter group, don't push it.

5. Don't be embarrassed if I don't respond the way you hope I will.

There is no need to apologize for your baby or small children if they:

  • cry when someone new picks them up.
  • hide behind you during introductions.
  • refuse to sit on Grandpa's lap when he hasn't visited in a long time.

They aren't terrible kids. They're shy, frightened and unsure of themselves in new situations. Too many parents feel an unresponsive toddler reflects unfavorably on them, and they react accordingly.

6. Please don't compare me with others.

Every baby and child is unique. Some learn to walk and say a few words before they are 1 year old. Others take longer. So what? Toddler development isn't a race, although to hear some parents, it appears to be.

7. I can't like everything you think I should.

Children need a variety of food, toys, etc., but to expect that they will like each equally is unrealistic. Forcing toddlers to eat foods they actively dislike, or to force their interests in a specific way, can develop into bigger problems later. If your toddler doesn't care for a certain vegetable, choose another. If Lori prefers playing with Lincoln Logs rather than Lincoln era doll houses, let her. Provide several choices and give the children an opportunity to learn decision making.

8. Handle me with care.

Toddlers may look sturdy, but they are still fragile. Overdone roughhousing, tossing babies in the air and jerking little arms and legs can damage young, growing bodies. Toddlers also need careful emotional handling. They can't always tell you if they're sick, cold, lonely or overly tired as easily as they can express hunger. Fussing is often a symptom of something needing attention.

9 Let me be my own age.

Some toddlers behave so well on occasion that parents forget they aren't little women and little men. Remember, toddlers are just past babyhood, and they must not be expected to respond like miniature adults. Lead don't push your toddlers into each new stage of childhood. Enjoy them fully at ages 2, 3 and 4. Soon you'll wave your kindergartner off in the mornings, and only memories of their toddler days will remain.

10. Be sure to tell me about Jesus.

Small children are wide open to learning about Jesus in the preschool years, and the Lord recognized this in Mark 10:15, "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

Create a godly home where you talk about the Lord, and all who dwell within will be blessed.

Background Information

Questions and Answers

Stories

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

TransitionsHaving a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence

Life PressuresWorking Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family

RelationshipsParents and Adult Children, Blended Families