Cres P. Quinzon, RN, MAN St.

Paul University Quezon City

Developmental Changes
toddler and preschooler refer to children

between the ages of 1 and 5. toddler period extends from 12 to 36 months,and the preschool period from 3 to 5 years. toddler years are often referred to as the terrible 2s as the child struggles to gain control During the toddler years,the child struggles to develop a sense of autonomy

Sex role imitation,such as dressing up,is

common during these years. Once the toddler has developed autonomy,he or she moves to the next stage,which Eric Erikson calls initiative versus guilt. This is a time of playing and learning.If the child goes beyond set limits,guilt results. Rapid cognitive development also occurs during this time.The child develops new skills,constantly building on what she or he has learned.

language skills continue to develop,and play

becomes an important means of expression and learning. Preschoolersperceptions of the Supreme Being are concrete and based on parental inuence.

Health Issues /Risk Factors

TOILET TRAINING The child needs to be physiologically and

psychologically ready for toilet training,and this usually occurs between 18 and 24 months.Usually,the child gains bowel control before bladder control,and full bladder control may not be achieved until age 5.

Health Issues /Risk Factors

SIBLING RIVALRY Jealousy is a normal reaction in a toddler or

preschooler, who may have trouble understanding and accepting a new baby TEMPER TANTRUMS AND NEGATIVISM As the child tries to assert her or his independence,she or he may act out by having temper tantrums and hold ing breath.

Health Issues /Risk Factors

FEARS, STRESS AND REGRESSION COMMUNICABLE DISEASES INJURIES AND POISONING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT