Learning to be independent

Your toddler will become more independent if you let them help you with jobs around the house. They can help with things like cooking, gardening or laundry, for example taking the washing in and out of the washing machine.

Getting dressed

Learning to get dressed on their own will take time. Start first with the clothes that are easier to take off, such as socks. When dressing, let your child do the last bit, such as pulling their socks up once you get them over their toes, and work backwards from there until they can do the whole task.

They’ll find it easier to get dressed if their clothes are easy to put on and take off. Clothes that are loose and stretchy are best with velcro instead of zips and buttons.

Keep the different items in organised spaces, maybe having a basket for socks and another for pants inside their drawers. This way your child will be able to learn where different items are kept.

RSBC tip:

If your child is taking their shoes and socks off to play in the sandpit or paddling pool for example, make sure they put their socks inside their shoes. This way they’ll be able to find them when it is time to put them back on.

Eating and drinking

You can help your toddler eat and drink on their own if you:

  • help them to predict when to open their mouth by touching the spoon against their chin or lips
  • teach eating skills like picking up the spoon and moving it to their mouth, by sitting behind, modelling the position of your arm
  • make sure they’re sitting up and are comfortable
  • give them plenty of time
  • serve small portions
  • at first, encourage them to touch the food and eat with their hands, they may take longer to use a spoon or fork
  • choose a plain plate and explain to your child what is on their plate and where it is
  • place their cup on the table so that they can pick it up and put it back down themselves, rather than handing it to them

RSBC tip:

Introduce your child to different textures of food with a multi-sensory cooking session. Let your child use their hands to mix, and touch different textures like sugar, jelly, beans. They might not like certain textures, let them experiment and get used to new things.

Toilet training​​​​

When you start toilet training, your toddler may find it easier to use a potty as their feet can be flat on the floor. Choose a potty that’s hard to tip over.

 

RSBC’s Family Support Service can help you with:

  • practical advice about your child’s development
  • support when you feel overwhelmed
  • understanding your child’s vision impairment better
  • living as a family and being supportive of each other

Call 0203 1980225 or email connections@rsbc.org.uk