So it’s finally happened; your newborn has suddenly become a toddler. Where has the time gone? No longer are the days that involve you carrying your child around. You often find yourself chasing them around the house because of their curiosity and energy.
Toddlers learn things about the world daily, and as they grow, they’ll need some support throughout their development. Yes, independence is important, but so is protecting them from themselves. So here are a few things you’ll need for your toddler.
1. A Toddler Multivitamin
Now that your newborn is a toddler, there are specific vitamins and nutrients they need to ensure they’re developing properly. The best way to get them is through a healthy and balanced diet. However, you may have a picky eater on your hands, making it challenging to do so.
If that’s the case, you can incorporate a toddler multivitamin. These supplements are ideal because they help fill in nutritional gaps. For example, vitamin C is essential for supporting a healthy immune system; your child needs no more than 400 mg daily. Products like fruits and vegetables are excellent sources. But a toddler multivitamin can kickstart their intake, making it easier to get the rest from other foods.
Other benefits of a toddler multivitamin include:
- Supporting bone health
- Improving energy and alertness
- It helps develop healthy habits from an early age
If you’re considering a toddler multivitamin for your child, consult a health care provider first. They’ll be able to advise you on which baby formula your toddler needs and the best method for them to take it.
2. Step Stools
Toddler curiosity can be interesting because they always try to reach for something out of their range. And once they notice how challenging the obstacle is, they start climbing on anything to reach their goal. Sometimes it can be cute, but it’s also dangerous,
Instead of worrying about falls from dangerous heights, grab your toddler a step stool. Although it may make it easier for them to get particular objects, it’s better than having them climb on your furniture. But step stools are more useful for other purposes, like teaching them how to wash their hands and brush their teeth. If they like watching you cook, they’ll be able to look safely with the help of their step stool.
3. Toddler Bed
How do you know when to switch your toddler from a crib to a bed? You’ll spend many nights rushing to their room to stop them from climbing over the railing. Going from a crib to a bed is a natural progression in their sleeping arrangements but can be challenging to incorporate. After all, a crib is all they know.
You can try converting their crib into a bed or buy a new toddler bed altogether. Some come with railings to prevent them from falling out. Another method some parents try is buying a mattress and putting it on the floor to help a toddler get used to the new bed.
4. Convertible High Chair
As your toddler starts eating by themselves, you put them in a high chair so they can join the festivities. Unfortunately, the tray is still attached—sometimes for a good reason—and can still make your child feel isolated. So it might be time for a better option.
There are high chairs that allow you to remove the tray so your toddler can sit right at the table. Other versions will enable you to strap a seat onto a regular dining room chair. It may get messy sometimes, but it removes that feeling of isolation.
5. Toddler Utensils
Walking, running, and climbing are three forms of toddler independence parents will come to love (ha!). However, eating is another significant step on their journey. When they start eating solid foods, toddlers use their hands, which is normal. But as their motor skills develop, they should be able to use utensils.
They wouldn’t be able to use the metal forks and spoons that adults use. Instead, smaller, plastic items would be ideal. For toddlers, it reinforces their independence because they’re eating like adults. Since your toddler is developing their motor skills, there will be a few messes. Once they pass the learning period, it’ll be smooth sailing from there.
6. Potty Seat
Potty training is a moment that some parents dread because it can be tedious. You may also have to clean the occasional accident. Toddlers need to learn how to use the bathroom without diaper help, which is where a potty chair comes in.
There are smaller toilet seats that emulate an adult toilet. It will take some practice, but it won’t be overwhelming for toddlers. After mastering the smaller version, they can move on.
Parents Need These Items For Toddlerhood
Parenting a toddler is no easy feat. So take a look at the suggestions above and grab them when you can. You can limit stress and help your toddler through these developmental stages.
