2 - 3 Years

Curious/exploring their bodies

Toddlers are becoming aware of themselves and their bodies. They also learn that they look different from other children and adults (they develop their identity).

Toddlers learn that they are boys or girls (they develop their gender identity).

Toddlers become very interested in their own bodies and those of people around them. Often they study their own bodies and genitalia in detail and also show them to other children and adults.

Toddlers start deliberately touching their genitals because it makes them feel good.

Toddlers still have a great need for physical contact. They like to sit on someone’s lap and enjoy being cuddled.

They also start learning about the “dos and don’ts” (social norms).