Monday, July 14, 2008

In 6 Days...

In Six days, Anna will be 20 months old! Oh my gosh, it's a new era! Wow! Her second birthday is just around the corner! I can't believe it!!!

Physical milestones

At 20 months, your child will probably be able to run, though not expertly. He may also go up stairs by himself, but he'll most likely need some help on the way down. He can probably kick a ball, too. Most toddlers at 20 months haven't yet got the hang of jumping or throwing a ball overarm.

Anna runs very well. She loves going up the stairs by herself and recently she goes down the stairs by herself as well with the help of the railing. Every so often she kicks balls, but I haven't seen it too often. She jumps off the ground quite well and yes, she throws overhand...everything. She loves throwing things. I think that's one of those milestones that moms aren't too happy to see lol...

Strong attachments

When you or another important adult leaves, it can be unsettling for your child, who relies on your presence to feel secure. Ease transitions by letting him know beforehand that you're going to leave and that you will be back "after lunch," "before tea," or whatever, and then don't drag out your exit. Give him a quick kiss and be off.

Yup... Anna hates it when I leave and she hates it, really, when anybody leaves the house, even if I'm still in it, but that's more because she wants to go, too!!! LOL!

Aggressive behavior

Small children frequently resort to hitting, pushing, biting, tugging, or any variety of other frowned-upon actions, sometimes to make themselves feel more important, but also to experiment: What happens when I hit Katy? Will the same thing happen when I hit Jamie? Don't overreact to your toddler's behavior. If you retaliate by hitting, it teaches that hitting is acceptable. Calmly make clear that such actions are never acceptable -- no matter how intense his feelings.

I've seen her hitting or throwing her arms around when she throws a fit, but I've never seen her hit, bite, tug, or push another child thankfully! That's another milestone I'm not too excited to see. I think she just doesn't do these things because she isn't around children very often.