Developmental Milestones

• Children this age need 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day (including naps). Consistent sleep routines and times make it easier!

Ideas for Learning and Growth

• Help your child be ready for new places and meeting new people. For example, you can read stories or role play (pretend play) to help him be comfortable. This can help with transitioning to a preschool or child care and help establish nap time routines.
• Read with your child. Ask him what’s happening in the story and what he thinks might happen next.
• Help your child learn about colors, shapes, and sizes. For example, ask the color, shapes, and size of things she sees during the day.
• Encourage your child to use “his words” to ask for things and solve problems but show him how. He may not know the words he needs. For example, help your child say, “Can I have a turn?” instead of taking something from someone.
• Help your child learn about others’ feelings, and about positive ways to react. For example, when he sees a child who is sad, say “He looks sad. Let’s bring him a teddy.”
• Use positive words and give attention to behaviors you want to see (“wanted behaviors”). For example, say “You’re sharing that book so nicely!” Give less attention to those you don’t want to see.
• Tell your child in a simple way why she can’t do something you don’t want her to do (“unwanted behavior”). Give her a choice of what she can do instead. For example, “You can’t jump on the bed. Do you want to go outside and play or put on some music and dance?”
• Let your child play with other children, such as at a park or library. Ask about local play groups and pre-school programs. Playing with others helps you child learn the value of sharing and friendship. It also helps your child rest since they have been actively playing.
• Create a calm, quiet bedtime routine. Avoid any screen time (TV, phone, tablet, etc.) for 1 to 2 hours before bed and don’t put any screens in your child’s bedroom.

Concerns

• You know your child best. Don’t wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early.
• Talk with your child’s doctor, share your concerns, and ask about a developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned:

1. Ask for a referral to a specialist who can evaluate your child more; and
2. Call your local Missouri public elementary school in which your family resides and ask for a free evaluation to find out if your child can get services to help.