Big toddler, big talker

Play Simon Says to teach your child the parts of the body, from head to feet.

Playing simple games together helps your toddler learn new words while providing important bonding time.

Play this little game to help your toddler learn new words, and have some silly fun!

How do you read to a squirmy toddler? LeapFrog Literacy Expert Dr. Carolyn James has help for parents of toddlers who won’t sit still!

Our learning experts explain how to choose the best educational toys for your new toddler.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises parents to bring their child to the dentist for a first visit when the child's first tooth arrives or by age 1, whichever comes first. If your toddler has not yet visited the dentist, find a pediatric dentist with experience with young patients. To ensure a positive experience, role play with your child before the visit and show him or her pictures of the instruments the dentist may use. Now is your opportunity to ask any dental questions about teething, bottles, pacifiers, nursing or anything else on your mind, so bring a list of questions.

While keeping in mind that every child is different, there are some physical milestones children generally reach by age 2. If your child is not walking alone by age 2, speak with your pediatrician. Most children also pull toys while walking, can carry toys while walking, are running, can stand on tiptoe, kick a ball and climb. If you have stairs, your child is likely walking up and down the stairs while holding the railing or someone's hand. By age 2, children have developed the fine motor control to draw scribbles, dump and pour out the contents of a container, and stack blocks.

Whether or not to send a child to preschool at any age is a personal family decision. Many preschools with 2-year-old programs are similar to day cares with a few more formal educational activities. To determine if your child is ready for preschool, consider whether or not he or she can comfortably separate from you for several hours, sit still for 20 minutes of circle time, follow simple directions and play nicely with other children. Also ask yourself if your child shows interest in learning. Some schools require potty training, although many that accept 2-year-olds do not. If you do not feel your child is ready for preschool, there is no need to enroll in one.

What’s the difference between fine and gross motor skills? Here’s what you need to know.

The time you spend with your child is filled with opportunities to talk about appropriate behavior.

Use these criteria to help select a good toy for your child.