Toddler
Toddler age
Toddlers are children between the ages of 1 and 3.
They are experiencing rapid development, learning to walk and talk. Their whole world is growing with exploration and curiosity.
Raising toddlers
Toddlers bring immense joy into a household. It's wonderful to watch them achieve their developmental milestones, from their first steps to their first words. They have boundless curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring the world which can remind you of the simple pleasures in life.
However raising a toddler can also come with its share of challenges. Toddler tantrums can test the patience of even the most patient caregiver. Sleep challenges, toilet training and the constant need for supervision can be tiring.
A normal daily routine for the age of toddlerhood usually involves one or two day sleeps. Usually by about 13 and 16 months of age, toddlers are getting down to one middle of the day sleep. They will be eating three meals a day as well as snacks and will be participating in family meals and activities.
Raising toddlers can be rewarding and challenging however watching them grow and develop makes the journey of raising toddlers a deeply fulfilling one.
Toddler FAQ's
A toddler is a child aged between 1 and 3 years, a stage marked by rapid physical, emotional and social development. Learn more about toddler development.
All children are different so when they drop their nap depends on their individual sleep needs, and tired signs, which toddlers may show through disruptive behaviour or clumsiness.
Some children may stop napping as early as two years old. Other will still need a snooze after lunch even up until they start school. We provide guidance on toddler sleep patterns and naps.
Toilet training is best started when your toddler shows signs of readiness, usually between 18 months and 3 years. A calm, supportive approach with encouragement and routine helps toddlers learn without pressure. Read our advice on toilet training toddlers.
Discipline for toddlers focuses on positive behaviour guidance, including clear boundaries, redirection and praise for appropriate behaviour. Tresillian recommends helping toddlers learn skills over time rather than using punishment. Learn more about toddler behaviour and discipline.
Toddlers have eight baby molars as part of their full set of 20 primary teeth, which usually appear by around age three. Teething, oral development and hygiene are covered in our information on teething.
Yes. Breastfeeding beyond 12 months continues to provide nutrition, health benefits comfort and emotional security, alongside a balanced diet. Tresillian supports long term breastfeeding for as long as the parent and child choose. Read more about breastfeeding support.
Indoor play that supports movement, creativity and connection helps toddlers learn and regulate emotions. Tresillian encourages play-based activities that support development, and we have an article with lots of toddler play ideas.
Teeth grinding is common in toddlers and is often linked to jaw development or new teeth coming through. It is usually temporary, but ongoing concerns can be discussed with a health professional. Learn more about toddler health and development.
No. Toddlerhood usually ends around 3 years of age. A 4-year-old is generally considered a preschool-aged child.
Respond calmly, set clear limits and help your toddler name their feelings. We recommend guiding toddlers toward gentle behaviour and supporting emotional regulation as part of managing toddler behaviour.
Toddlers over 12 months can usually have up to about 500 mL of milk per day in a cup, alongside a variety of solid foods. We explain how milk and dairy fit into a balanced diet as part of toddler nutrition.
Pillows are not recommended before age 2. After this age, a small, firm pillow may be introduced if appropriate. Tresillian provides guidance on safe sleep for toddlers.
Many toddlers move from a cot to a bed between 2 and 3 years, or when they begin climbing out. Maintaining familiar routines can help with this transition. Read our advice on toddler sleep transitions.
Toddler tantrums are a normal part of development. Tresillian advises responding with empathy, staying calm and helping toddlers feel safe while they learn to manage big emotions. Learn more about toddler tantrums.
A predictable, calming bedtime routine and responding to tired signs can help toddlers settle. Tresillian’s guidance on toddler sleep and settling supports parents to build healthy sleep patterns over time.
The local child and family health nursing service is a good place to start, to begin with looking at developmental milestones and behaviour expectations. If your child does need referral to an allied health professional, they can help coordinate that pathway to the relevant allied health professional. Some community centres have direct access to the allied health team too, so try checking with your local community health service.
Consistency, and including your toddler in the decision making. Your toddlers may like to choose which pyjamas they wear, what book to read, song to sing, or who will get the first goodnight kiss…note what we did there?! Don’t give them a question that can be answered with “no”…!
Tresillian Residential 4-night/5-day stay can help you support your toddler through nighttime sleep disruptions by exploring what you have already tried and working alongside with a strategy plan you as you support and respond to your child during the night.