Toddler This Week: 20 Months, Week 1

Toddlers are curious about everything, including their own bodies. Have you noticed your child playing with his genitals? It's nothing to worry about – unless it's happening nonstop. To cut down on embarrassing fact-finding missions in public, explain to your child that some things are done only at home in private. If that doesn't dissuade him, offer him a toy or something else to keep his hands occupied.

Your child loves to help: "Me do it" and "By self!" are two of a toddler's favorite declarations. Take advantage of that built-in desire by involving your child in simple chores.

Many jobs are beyond his ability, but he can work alongside you to help with simple tasks, such as putting dirty spoons in the dishwasher, wiping up his own food spills, watering plants, or placing napkins on the table. Taking part in household activities makes your 20-month-old feel important – like a contributing member of the team.

Toddlers don't distinguish between work and play. They just like to do. Encourage this attitude now, and your child may be an ongoing helper around the house. Be sure to offer specific approving praise, whether or not the job is done perfectly: "Wow, thanks for putting all those napkins on the plates!"

Tooth tactics

You keep hearing how important it is to brush a toddler's teeth – but actually accomplishing this feat is another story. Some tips to make the task easier:
• Try "monkey see, monkey do." Brush your own teeth at the same time so your child can mimic you – a favorite toddler activity.
• Play up the spitting part, which many toddlers love once they've mastered it. Demonstrate  how to swish a sip of water and then spit it out – and then let him practice as many times as he wants.
• Let him stand on a step stool so he can see his reflection in the mirror. Then count teeth together as you brush them. • A battery-powered or musical toothbrush may entice a reluctant brusher.
• A small, soft-bristled brush is the most comfortable.

Fluoride toothpaste isn't advisable until at least age 2, and even then only a pea-size drop is recommended. Young children tend to swallow more than they spit out, and ingesting too much fluoride at an early age can cause discoloration of the permanent teeth. If toothpaste helps your toddler cooperate with brushing, look for "baby toothpaste" that doesn't contain fluoride.

-BabyCenter.com

More rice and beans!