It’s important to acknowledge your child’s efforts to help you or others.

Words like these show your child that you are listening and that you would like to hear more about what’s on her mind.

Your expression of confidence in your child’s ability to do many things without your help is important.

Let your child know you are willing and available to help her accomplish a particular task that may be difficult for her to manage on her own.

A child is never too young to learn that cooperation and team effort make many jobs easier and speedier – and often more fun.

Don’t just tell your child you love him – show him.

After all these years, “please” is still a classic. When you ask a favor of anyone – including children – this “magic word” acknowledges that you are asking for a behavior that will help you and/or make you happy.

Self-respect and self-confidence grow when your child’s efforts and performance are rewarded. Whenever possible, give your child lots of praise. Be sure your praise is honest and specific. Focus on your child’s efforts and progress, and help her identify her strengths.

Young children need structure in their daily lives to provide a measure of security in an often insecure world. It is up to you as a parent to establish and maintain a workable schedule of activities, always remembering that children benefit from regular mealtimes and bedtimes.

Everyone needs love and affection and a feeling of acceptance and belonging. We can’t assume that children know and understand our love for them unless we tell them. Letting your child know that you love him (and showing him with countless hugs) is important not only in toddlerhood, but also as he gets older.