Waning Appetite
Though the toddler weighs more than a baby, his appetite
may not grow in proportion. In fact it may dwindle but
this is only to be expected. The size of appetite may
not depend on weight or age but the growth rate; growth
rate slows down dramatically after the first birthday.
A baby typically doubles its birth weight by five months
of age and triples it by the end of the first year.
From about twelve to thirty months, a toddler gains
a moderate 3 to 4 kilos. The fact that her appetite
has diminished makes it only natural for her to be growing
far more slowly than before. A toddler's growing independence
can also affect her eating habits. Impatience to sit
through the whole meal, asserting their autonomy are
some reasons why toddlers do not cooperate during meal
times. Experts feel that rigidity on your part is only
going to worsen the matter; it is best to not make a
big issue about eating. It is very rare that a toddler
will starve himself when food is available. However
if you have serious issues concerning your child's feeding
habits - eating too much or too little - you should
discuss this with your pediatrician.
Exploring Genitals
Body exploration first began during infancy and continues
throughout early childhood. Although self-exploration
is normal, it can become quite embarrassing when they
handle their private parts in front of you and others.
Some parents feel that genital handling is a sign of
sexual development. Whatever the source of discomfort,
many parents wonder what is the appropriate way to react
to this delicate matter. Since almost all toddlers do
it, many experts feel that parents should accept this
as a norm and not make a big deal about it. Since these
parts are always covered that is why the fascination
for it; it is certainly not a sign of sexuality. No
matter what you think or feel, these organs are just
another body part of your toddler. You need to decide
on your own approach ranging from being openly approving
to ignoring it to discouraging it. If you choose to
discourage, then do it calmly and matter-of-factly with
love rather than reproach. Your toddler is not being
bad; merely curious.
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