During children's toddler years-ages one to three-they are exploring the world, both physically and intellectually. In that short time, important milestones for increased mobility, language acquisition, and social skills present new challenges in early care and education settings. Caregivers can have a positive role in promoting this growth, especially if they understand the basics of child development presented in this book.

Understanding Toddler Development details the impact toddlers' experiences and routines, including how much sleep they get, can have on brain growth and emotional stability. It also gives important strategies for helping toddlers avoid the accidents to which they are so prone.

Understanding Toddler Development is part of a series of child development handbooks written by Margaret B. Puckett, Janet K. Black, and Joseph Moriarity: Understanding Infant Development, Understanding Toddler Development, and Understanding Preschooler Development.

All are adapted from The Young Child. Written for child care providers in any setting, the series providess a comprehensive overview of key theories and research on child development.

The chapters in Understanding Toddler Development cover topics including:



The impact and long-term effects of biology and environment on toddlers' early early brain development.
How toddlers learn.
Important theories of toddler child development.
How early life experiences lay the groundwork for toddlers' evolving language acquisition and thinking.
The effects of nurturing care on toddlers' emotional development and stability in later life.
Milestones and windows of opportunity for toddlers' development.