Have a tip to share, or a question we haven’t answered? Email us at marveltots@gmail.com.
1. Sleep struggles (0 to 1)
- Create a consistent bedtime routine with soothing activities.
- Try white noise. Think of it as a snooze DJ for your baby.
2. Feeding challenges (0 to 1)
- Be patient with messy eating, and keep offering new foods.
- Funny faces and airplane spoons turn mealtime into an adventure.
3. Teething troubles (6 to 12 months)
- Offer a firm teething ring or a cold, damp washcloth.
- Gently rub their gums with a clean finger, a baby spa day. Skip teething gels and necklaces, which aren’t recommended.
4. Potty training (1 to 3)
- Celebrate successes with a potty dance or stickers.
- Make the potty fun: a royal throne for your little king or queen. More in our potty training guide.
5. Tantrums and big feelings (1 to 3)
- Stay calm and stay close. Name the feeling: “You’re mad the park is closed.”
- Offer two choices you’re happy with (“red cup or blue cup?”) to head off battles before they start.
6. Language development (1 to 2)
- Read together, and narrate your day as you go.
- Sing songs. Your duets may not win awards, but they’re priceless.
7. Building independence (2 to 3)
- Offer small choices in clothes or snacks to give a sense of control.
- Set up safe spaces where they can explore freely.
8. Safety as they get moving (1 to 3)
- Childproof your home, and keep a close eye. See our safety checklist.
- Teach simple safety rules through games, like “stop and freeze” by the road.
9. Social skills (2 to 3)
- Arrange playdates, and model sharing and kindness.
- Practise “please” and “thank you” in pretend play.
10. Routines (1 to 3)
- Stick to regular meal, bath and bedtimes.
- Use a picture chart so they can see what comes next.
11. Picky eating (1 to 3)
- Offer a variety of foods in small portions, including one they already like.
- Make it a game: “Who can crunch the loudest?”
12. Learning to walk (9 to 18 months)
- Give them safe space to practise, with soft obstacles to cruise around.
- Cheer every step. It’s a mini marathon.
13. Public meltdowns (1 to 3)
- Stay calm, and don’t worry about onlookers. Every parent has been there.
- Keep a meltdown kit: snacks, a small toy and a distraction or two.
14. Play and creativity (1 to 3)
- Offer simple open-ended toys and art materials.
- Join in. Be a fellow astronaut or a tea party guest. See our activity ideas.
15. A new sibling (1 to 3)
- Involve them in getting ready for the baby.
- Set aside special one-on-one “big sibling” time.
16. Doctor visits (1 to 3)
- Talk positively about the visit beforehand, and play doctor at home.
- Bring a favourite toy or book for comfort.
17. Learning to share (2 to 3)
- Practise taking turns at home with family.
- Use a timer so turns feel fair.
18. Starting childcare or preschool (2 to 3)
- Start with short visits and build up.
- Talk about their day and celebrate new experiences.
19. Separation anxiety (1 to 3)
- Create a short, cheerful goodbye ritual, and then go.
- Leave a comfort item, like a special blanket or a family photo.
20. Healthy eating habits (1 to 3)
- Let them help with grocery shopping and simple cooking.
- Make plates colourful: a veggie rainbow or a funny-face salad.