Match activities to development and set rules with reasons

Parents of capable toddlers:

•  Encourage their children to help with household chores.

• Have regular family routines (like mealtimes).

•  Allow their children to do some messy things, such as washing dishes.

• Choose programs carefully, then limit and supervise their children’s television viewing.

• Observe their children closely to keep them safe —and to fit activities to their child’s developing skills.

•  Read to their children daily.

•  Have firm, consistent rules and give children reasons for these rules.

•  Teach their children and actively help them learn.

• Play with their children frequently —including pretend play.