Responds to and thrives on warm, sensitive physical contact and care.
Expresses discomfort, hunger or thirst.
Anticipates food routines with interest.
Opens mouth for spoon.
Holds own bottle or cup.
Grasps finger foods and brings them to mouth.
Attempts to use spoon: can guide towards mouth but food often falls off.
Can actively cooperate with nappy changing (lies still, helps hold legs up).
Starts to communicate urination, bowel movement.
Develops own likes and dislikes in food and drink.
Willing to try new food textures and tastes.
Holds cup with both hands and drinks without much spilling.
Clearly communicates wet or soiled nappy or pants.
Shows some awareness of bladder and bowel urges.
Shows awareness of what a potty or toilet is used for.
Shows a desire to help with dressing/undressing and hygiene routines.
Feeds self competently with spoon.
Drinks well without spilling.
Clearly communicates their need for potty or toilet.
Beginning to recognise danger and seeks support of significant adults for help.
Helps with clothing, e.g. puts on hat, unzips zipper on jacket, takes off unbuttoned shirt.
Beginning to be independent in self-care, but still often needs adult support.
Can tell adults when hungry or tired or when they want to rest or play.
Observes the effects of activity on their bodies.
Understands that equipment and tools have to be used safely.
Gains more bowel and bladder control and can attend to toileting needs most of the time themselves.
Can usually manage washing and drying hands.
Dresses with help, e.g. puts arms into open-fronted coat or shirt when held up, pulls up own trousers, and pulls up zipper once it is fastened at the bottom.