Caring for your toddler

Every child is different, and we have support and advice available for everyone.

Caring for a toddler can be exciting as they grow, learn and explore new things, and at times it can feel challenging too, with big emotions.

The Best Start in Life parent hub website has lots of advice about:

You can also find advice on caring for your child’s teeth and oral health.

Toilet training

Being confident using the toilet is an important step before a child starts school. It helps children join in with lessons, feel comfortable during the day, and learn to be independent.

Every child learns at their own pace, and they are ready to start toilet training at different times. Most children learn little by little before they stop using nappies.

ERIC is a children’s bowel and bladder charity and they have a 3-step Let’s Go Potty guide. This involves getting your child ready to use the potty, practising together, and then stopping nappies when your child feels confident.

You can also find toilet training sessions across our Family Hubs, to support your child in becoming school ready.

Accident prevention

Children can get injured as they explore the world, so bumps and bruises are common. But many serious accidents, such as choking, falls and burns, can be prevented. The Child Accident Prevention Trust has advice for keeping your child safe and preventing accidents.

Water safety

There has been an increase in water-related child deaths, ranging from baths to swimming pools and open water.

Water safety is very important, especially in under-5s, who are most at risk. Find advice on water safety at home from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Screen time guidance

Balancing family life in a digital world can be challenging. The government recommends that parents limit screen time for children aged 2–5 to no more than one hour a day. It also suggests to avoid screens at mealtimes and in the hour before bedtime.

It also advises that children under 2 should avoid screen time altogether, except for shared activities that support bonding, interaction, and conversation.

Find more advice about supporting healthy screen habits for children under 5 on the Best Start in Life parent hub website.

Seeking help

You do not have to deal with issues alone – it’s always okay to ask for help.

If you need help in an emergency, call 999. If it’s not an emergency, contact your GP or call NHS 111.

If your toddler is unwell

The NHS has guidance on how to tell if your toddler is seriously unwell. There is also other advice on what to do if your child needs medical help.

Mental health support

Feeling low, anxious or overwhelmed is common, and there’s support available.

If you feel you need help immediately, call 999. If it’s not an emergency, speak to your GP. You can also call NHS 111 and press ‘1’ for mental health support.