What should I know about caring for a 23-month-old child?

Development & Behavior

How should my child develop on the 23rd month?

Your child may now learn about 10 new words a day. Here are some language skills that your child can be at almost 2 years of age:

• Forming sentences consists of 2 to 4 words ("high flying birds")
• Sing a simple song
• Follow simple instructions
• Using person pronouns (me, him, you) even though it's not always true
• Repeat the words he heard in the conversation
• Get to know people's names, objects, and body parts

Your baby's growth looks slower compared to his first year. The child's weight is 3 times the birth weight at the age of 1 year, but only increases 1.4 kg in the second year. Now, your toddler also doesn't look like a baby anymore. He was agile, active, and the baby fat was gone.

The way to hold the body and move also changes. The toddler's movements develop to be more refined, with more coordinated steps. Along with his second birthday, most children can pull toys behind him and carry things when they walk, and they will run. The bigger, your child will be able to reach a place that you don't expect. He can climb benches, tables and lockers, open boxes that he never likes before, and move to dangerous areas (swimming pools, wells) faster than you can imagine.

How can I help my child develop on the 23rd month?

To encourage your child to talk and use more words, you can support it by doing the following:

• Read various books. A varied book will help your child know more words.
• Change your child's words or phrases into a sentence. For example, when he says "add milk," you can say, "You want to add milk to your cup."
• As you read together, you can stimulate your child's development by asking questions about the book. You can point to the picture in the book and ask him what the picture is.
• When you walk or drive, you can point to anything and explain to your child what it is.

It's important to continue to chat with your child, even though sometimes it looks like you are talking to yourself.

Health & Safety

What should I discuss with the doctor on the 23rd month?

Every child develops at a different speed. You only have to worry if there is a sudden change in your child's behavior, eating or sleeping habits. Discussing this problem with a doctor is very important, even though you think this is only a small thing.

What should I know on month 23?

You may realize your child doesn't like to part with you. This period can come and go. You must know that this is normal. There are several triggers that can cause your child to experience separation anxiety. For example, a new caregiver, a new family member, or he thinks you have fun without it. The best way to overcome this is to give a good-bye farewell. You may not leave without saying goodbye. This will only worsen the situation. Going quietly and not saying goodbye will only make your child feel abandoned. Don't worry, your child will be able to overcome this anxiety state. If you don't see any improvement, tell your doctor. The doctor may be able to help you find out the trigger.

My attention

What should I pay attention to in the 23rd month?

You might be worried about your child's actions in a crowd, especially when at a supermarket, plane or restaurant. Your child's anger is unpredictable. Sometimes you feel you have no control. This is normal. You need to explain clearly that the behavior is not appropriate. Maybe this doesn't disappear in just a few times, but they will finally understand that they need to improve their attitude.

When tired or hungry can trigger anger for children. If this happens to your child, you should take action to prevent it from raging in the crowd. You can bring snacks in a bag and make sure he doesn't miss his nap.

How will your child grow next month?