Has a decreased appetite; lunch is often the preferred meal of the day.
Sometimes described as a finicky or fussy eater; may go on food jags; neither requires, nor wants, a large amount of food.
Occasionally holds food in mouth without swallowing it; usually indicates child does not need or want any more to eat,.
Uses spoon with some degree of skill (if hungry and interested in eating).
Has good control of cup: lifts it up, drinks from it, sets it down, holds with one hand,.
Helps feed self; some two-year-olds can feed self independently; others need help
Bathing, Dressing, Toilet Needs
Tries to wash self; plays with washcloth and soap.
Takes off own shoes, stockings, some pants; attempts to dress self, often with little success tries to put both feet into one pant leg, puts shirt on backwards or upside down.
Helps when being dressed; puts arm in armhole, lifts feet to have socks put on,.
Lets parent or caregiver know when diaper or pants are soiled or wet.
Begins to gain some control of bowels and bladder; complete control often not achieved until around age three. Bowel training can begin around twelve months; control is often achieved by eighteen months. Begins some bladder control after eighteen months.
Sleeping
Falls asleep around 8 or 9 p.m.; however, will often fall asleep at dinner if nap has been missed.
Makes many requests at bedtime for stuffed toys, a book or two, a special blanket.
Has some problems gong to sleep; overflow of energy shows itself bouncing and jumping, calling for mother, demanding a drink, insisting on being taken to the bathroom, singing, making and remaking bed, all of which seem to be ways of "winding down."
Play and Social Activity
Developing a strong sense of property rights; "mine" is heard frequently. Sharing is difficult, hoards toys and other items.
Enjoys helping, but gets into "trouble" when left alone: smears toothpaste, tries on lipstick, empties dresser drawers.
Enjoys talking about pictures; likes repetition, as in Drummer Hoff, Mr. Bear, Dr. Seuss.
Enjoys walks; stops frequently to look at things (rocks, gum wrappers, insects); squats to examine them; much dawdling with no real interest in getting any place in particular.
Still plays alone (solitary play) most of the time, though showing interest in other children, lots of watching; parallel play as yet (exception may be children who have spent considerable time in group care).
At bedtime needs door left slightly ajar with light on in another room; seems to feel more secure, better able to settle down.
Continues naps; naps too long or too late will interfere with bedtime.
Wakes up slowly from nap; cannot be hurried or rushed into any activity at this time.
