Toddler

During this period, the child learns a great deal about social roles and develops motor skills; to toddle is to walk unsteadily.

The term cruising is used for toddlers who can not toddle but must hold onto something while walking.

This is the age when they are known as, "the terrible two's", because of the temper tantrums they are famous for.

This stage can begin as early as nine months old depending on the child and environment.

The toddler is discovering that they are a separate being from their mother or caregiver and are testing their boundaries in learning the way the world around them works.

This time between the ages of two and five when they are reaching for independence repeats itself during adolescence.

Thus it is very important for the caregiver to be consistent with boundaries and discipline for the child’s safety and the caregiver's sanity.