Your toddler’s health and wellbeing

Healthy routines and early support make a big difference to your child's development. 

As your toddler grows, you may notice changes in their sleep, eating, behaviour and overall health. These are all part of developing into a healthy and active child.

Keeping your toddler safe will be a priority for you – but there is so much to think about. The Lullaby Trust has some advice.  

What you might notice

From around 4 to 12 months

• developing feeding and sleep routines
• becoming more active and curious
• starting to explore their environment

From around 12 to 24 months

• increasing independence, including feeding and moving around
• changes in sleep patterns
• growing awareness of routines and daily activities 

From around 2 to 4 years

• becoming more active and confident
• developing daily habits like eating, sleeping and toileting
• showing preferences for foods, activities and routines

All children follow their own path, and progress can come in bursts. 

Development review

Every child has a 2 to 2 and a half year development review. Find out more about this on Oxford Health. This will be organised through your health visitor or midwife.  

Why health and wellbeing matters

Good health and wellbeing help your child to:

• grow and develop physically and emotionally
• build healthy habits for life
• feel safe, secure and confident

How you can support your toddler

You don't need to be perfect. Small, everyday actions help support your child's health and wellbeing.

Support healthy routines

• keep regular times for meals, sleep and activities
• aim for a balanced diet with a variety of foods
• encourage active play every day

Look after their health

• keep up to date with immunisations
• attend health checks and reviews
• support good habits like handwashing and brushing teeth

Encourage rest and sleep

• create a calm and consistent bedtime routine
• make sure your child has time to rest as well as play

Support emotional wellbeing

• spend time together playing and talking
• offer comfort and reassurance
• help your child understand their feelings

Keep them safe

• supervise play and activities
• create a safe home and outdoor environment
• be aware of common risks as your child becomes more mobile 

Trust your instincts – you know your child best

You may want to speak to someone if:

• you're concerned about your child's health, growth or development
• your child is unwell more often than expected
• you have questions about behaviour, sleep or eating

You don't need to wait. Speak to your health visitor or GP if you have any questions.

Resources and support

• Anna Freud - advice for parents and carers - support for feelings, behaviour and emotional development
• NSPCC - support for parents - practical support on routines, behaviour and keeping children safe
• Oxfordshire Healthier Together - Local NHS advice on children's health, symptoms and where to get help

Pop into one of our family hubs 

Family hubs provide ongoing support after your baby arrives, including activities, family services and opportunities to meet other parents. 

Want to find out more about what comes next? 

Growing up, from toddlers to preschool – their development stages and what to expect.