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Very important, not because we want to create perfect little robots, but because we want to start developing our children's ability to adapt and learn. We start giving them the tools to get the most out of life from the first time they lay eyes on us, so don't underestimate what they can and can't learn...

With all the stages your new child goes through, it is often difficult to pinpoint when they move from one to the next. The stages are classified by what happens to the child mentally, intellectually and socially. Certain skills are developed in each of these stages and it is important to know where your child stands. Development in the early years is very important. It is always good to know where your child stands emotionally and developmentally.

When Does my Baby Become a Toddler?

An infant becomes a toddler at the age of one. The toddler stage occurs between the ages of one and two. During this time, mobility becomes increasingly more noticeable. Independence becomes identified and defiance is normal. Toddlers begin to recognize themselves when shown pictures or placed in front of a mirror. They also begin to mimic the behavior of those around them.

Can My Toddler Actually Learn Manners?

Children in the toddler stage think they are the center of everything. This competes with our illusion of control!  They can often be grumpy when forced to do things they don’t like or want. They begin to become more interested in their surroundings and touching or getting into EVERYTHING is not abnormal. Toddlers may begin to suffer from separation, this usually coincides with walking.

The toddler stage may be somewhat difficult. Most toddlers begin to develop a strong sense of self. They can also be easily upset. Make sure to stay patient with your child. This stage is extremely important for developing spatial skills and people skills. Although it may be difficult to get your toddler to understand the concept of sharing, make sure to keep them involved with others their age. Read to your toddler and show them lots of pictures. This period in a child’s life is very important for development, make sure to stay engaged no matter how difficult it may be. This will, in turn, make it easier for them as they continue growing and maturing.

How Important Are Manners for a Toddler?

In essence, it is important that you start the HABIT of manners, and learning manners. This is important, not just for your child, but for you as a parent! It's hard to teach a toddler manners, because it's hard to say the same thing over and over and over again, with very little result. It's frustrating for us as adults, which is why we give up, and say "when they understand more we'll teach them properly". We won't. We will have developed a habit of following the path of least resistance, and we will capitulate and give in. 

A well mannered toddler is not a toddler that is abnormally restrained and 'oppressed' by his or her parents. A well-mannered toddler is a child that is becoming used to the idea of boundaries and is therefore a child comfortable in it's own skin. 

Etiquette and manners (rules) come later - but teaching your child to consider their environment and their effect on it is essential from the youngest age.

Good Luck!