Toddler Self-Care

This month, we have been learning about self-care and taking care of others. Some of the things we are working toward are dressing, covering our coughs and sneezes, wiping our noses, cleaning our own space, putting our work away, and grace and courtesy. They are also learning to identify their physical needs and how to take care of themselves. Now is the time to offer the opportunity to learn self-care. We all know that perfection of these skills will take some time. "Errors" allow for improvement. As a parent, we have so many obligations and time can work against us as we rush around trying to get the children ready in the morning. When it is possible, taking the time to slow down will give children the opportunity to learn a new skill, and in time, their independence will free up more of your time.

     Here are some things you can do to get started on helping your child with self-care:

Make Things Accessible

• Place items like a tissue box, plates for snacks, and snack items on their level so they can reach things for themselves.
• Place a washcloth by the sink so they can wash their face.
• Place a basket with a change of clothing in the bathroom on the floor so they can change their clothing, and place a small chair or bench or stool next to it.
• Offer a child-size potty.
• Allow them to make their bed or have a sleeping bag and have them smooth the covers out.

Picking out clothing

     Place three changes of clothing on their bed, or hang three changes of clothing on a low closet rod for them to pick out in the morning. This way they will choose appropriate clothes for the weather and that you approve of but they feel like they are making the decision.

Alert your child of their needs

     When starting your child may not be aware of their own needs. If you see a need talk to your child about their self-care needs. "Hannah, I see that your nose is running, Do you remember where the tissues are?"

*Collaboration or giving just as much help is needed.

The child may still need help and guidance is perfectly fine. Guiding them to do it themselves will allow for both of you to help so eventually the child will learn to do it on their own. Work with the child, not for the child. There is a fine line where we can do everything for them or allow them to get frustrated if they refuse to try. We must show, then collaborate, then allow them to do it themselves. Watch your child and offer the minimum help he needs to succeed, sometimes just sitting with them allows them to know they can do it by themselves.

-Butterfly Teacher