Toddler (1 — 3 years)
Toddlers begin to actively explore their surroundings in earnest. They seek adult companionship and begin to learn the consequences of their actions. Toddlers assert their independence, recognize ownership ("mine") and protest and say "No" even when they are compliant and cheerful. Toddlers learn about things by doing, and will express their frustration if routines are not followed.
Common fears for toddlers can include separation from their parents or primary caregivers, loss of physical and emotional control; pain, and needles. These fears can be increased during a hospital or healthcare experience. The following strategies can help parents and caregivers during their toddler's healthcare experience.
Review our growth and development information for more about your child's development by age.
Play and recreation
- Providing familiar toys and objects such as stuffed animals, movies, music and blankets
- Listening to favorite music
- Watching favorite movies or cartoons
- Scribbling with crayons and paper
- Stacking blocks
- Reading books with adults
- Bouncing, throwing and kicking a ball
- Sculpting with play dough
- Painting
- Hammering, pounding or crashing toys
- Playing peek-a-boo
Medical play
- Providing toy doctor's kits with added items such as BAND-AIDS and cotton balls
- Playing doctor with dolls
- Playing peek-a-boo with doctor hats and masks
- Creating art collages with BAND-AIDS. and other medical equipment
- Letting your child explore and play with medical equipment
- Reading books about healthcare experiences
Preparation
- Talking with your toddler one to two days before his or her healthcare experience.
- Using simple words that your child will understand
- Reassuring your child that you will be with him or her whenever possible.
- Allowing your child to choose his or her favorite things to bring to the hospital.
- Reading books about going to the hospital.
- Encouraging your child to use play medical kits and dolls to act out his or her understanding of the experience.
Coping techniques
- Holding your toddler
- Playing music, singing or reciting nursery rhymes
- Reading pop-up and sound books
- Blowing bubbles
- Spinning pinwheels
Contact Us
- 215-590-2001
