As your little one approaches the 25 to 27-month mark, you might find them kicking, screaming, and exhibiting some classic behaviors of the “terrible twos.” While the challenges can be overwhelming, it’s important to remember that this behavior is a sign of their growing independence. Thankfully, this phase is usually temporary, and amidst the chaos, there are plenty of exciting developments to anticipate.
Growth and Development
Weight Expectations
At this stage, toddlers typically gain weight slowly. On average, girls weigh between 27.1 and 27.9 pounds, while boys range from 28.4 to 29 pounds, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nutrition Needs
When it comes to feeding your toddler, focus on quality over quantity. Your picky eater might prefer to nibble on specific foods, so evaluate their nutrition over a week rather than day by day. Aim for a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Ideally, they should have three meals and two snacks daily. If you have concerns about their dietary intake, consult your pediatrician.
Sleep Patterns
Most toddlers in this age bracket require approximately 11 to 12 hours of sleep at night, plus 1.5 to 3 hours of napping, totaling 13 to 14 hours of sleep each day. Be prepared for some resistance to naptime, as they may be more interested in play than rest. However, it’s essential to maintain a consistent sleep routine for their well-being.
Physical, Social, and Cognitive Milestones
Physical Activities
Your 25- to 27-month-old should be quite active, engaging in climbing, jumping, dancing, and running around. If they seem less active than their peers, it would be wise to discuss this with their pediatrician to rule out any issues.
Language Development
By now, many toddlers can articulate between 50 to 100 words, with some even knowing over 200. They may begin forming simple phrases and sentences containing two to four words. If your toddler is not speaking yet, it’s worth mentioning to their pediatrician, as early intervention can be beneficial.
Behavioral Trends
Expect some typical behaviors of this age, including tantrums, defiance, and struggles with sharing. You might also notice that they repeat actions frequently, which is their way of exploring boundaries and consequences.
Potty Training Readiness
The average age for successful potty training is between 27 and 32 months, so you’re approaching that milestone. It’s a good idea to start encouraging potty training around your child’s second birthday.
Health Checkups
Routine Checkups
If you’ve already completed your toddler’s two-year checkup, you may be in the clear until their next scheduled appointment unless they fall ill or need vaccinations.
Vaccination Updates
Consider scheduling an annual influenza vaccine if it hasn’t been done yet, as this is the right time for such immunizations.
In summary, while the 25- to 27-month period can be challenging, it’s also full of growth and development. Your toddler is learning and exploring the world around them, and despite the occasional outburst, there are numerous milestones to celebrate. For more insights into parenting during this stage, check out resources like NHS’s guide on IVF or explore home insemination options to support your parenting journey. For outdoor storage solutions, Yardstash offers excellent advice.