Being the parent of a child approaching age two can be exciting and challenging at the same time.
Why is it important?
Age 1-2 years is an important time for your child’s development when your toddler’s brain and body are developing very quickly. The activities they do with you, the number and type of words they hear and how their feelings are responded to by adults who are special to them will help to develop their confidence when they become adults.
Around the age of two, young children may want to have more independence, though they are still dependent, which can lead to frustrations and tantrums. For example, your child may begin to develop strong likes and dislikes such as a favourite toy, dislike of foods which they will try to tell you about but may not yet have the language to fully express this in words.
First point of contact
Your health visitor can help you to understand why your child may be having tantrums and help you to think about ways to manage their emotional needs. You may also be able to access some of the family support services in the area including a free parenting programme.
Local services and information
There are many places in Hackney where you can go with your 1-2 year old. Your local Children’s Centre and library will have play sessions and other information about playing and learning activities in the area.
- Health Visiting Service
- Parenting and mental health support for children, young people and their families
- Emotional regulation and tantrums
- Get help with mealtimes and your toddler’s eating habits
Fussy eating habits can be very common at this age. You can contact the Healthy Families team on 07519 109876 for help and information about cooking, eating and mealtimes.
Finding and paying for childcare
Children aged 2-4yrs may be able to get free childcare for 15 hours or 30 hours a week. Most Hackney providers offer free childcare places for eligible 2 year-olds and all 3 and 4 year-olds. Find out if you are eligible for free childcare. Watch a video about free childcare in Hackney. There are also other ways to get help with paying for childcare
There are also tips on what to look for when choosing a nursery or childminder
For childcare enquiries contact Hackney Family Information Service on 0208 8207590 or fis@hackney.gov.uk
National resources
Emotional development
- Managing mini emotions videos
- Helping your child with everyday emotions films
- Tempers and tears leaflet
- Separations and changes leaflet
Toilet Training
- Toilet Training - Hackney and City Health Visiting
- How to toilet train (NHS)
- Toilet training tips (PACEY)
- Toilet training tips leaflet (IHV)
Childcare, education and learning
- What to expect when - child development guidance
- Taking your child to an early years setting (PDF)
- Five steps to help you choose childcare
- Tips for sharing stories with toddlers (Tiny Happy People)
- Talk and play tips (Words for Life)
Other resources suitable for children aged 1-2 years
- COVID-19 resource - washing hands film
- See and eat resources ideas
- Fussy eating (HENRY)
- Play and learning activities -18-24 months film clips
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