Video Series: Watch How Your Child Develops from 1 – 5 Years Old

Three kiwi families share what you can expect when raising young children from babies to toddlers and beyond. These parents discuss safety, child development and the importance of playtime.

How your child develops: 1-2 years old

Viewing time: 4m 10s

What you will learn in this video:

• Meet 27 year old Amiria and her 15 month old son Tawhai
• Their Well Child Tamaraki Ora nurse is Erika and she will regularly assess Tawhai’s health and general development, including speech development.
• Erika explains that talking to your child is important
• Reading and singing to your toddler is key to their development, too
• Parents need to be aware of safety hazards in the home at this age
• Brushing your toddler’s teeth is becoming very important  – make sure you are using a soft toothbrush and family fluoride toothpaste
• Amiria encourages Maori and Pacific women to be proud of their heritage and pass this on to their children, telling stories and sharing history.

How your child develops: 2-3 years old

Viewing time: 4m 31s

What you will learn in this video :

• We meet Kanae and Steve, parents to Hugo, 4 and 2-year-old Kaila
• Kids want to touch everything at the age of 2-3 and safety continues to be extremely important, such as putting a latch on a cupboard with cleaning products
• Feeding your children nutritious foods is really beneficial
• You may need to use games to help with a teeth-brushing routine
• Temper tantrums are normal at this age – try and stay positive with your child
• Verbalise how your child may be feeling – this can help her feel understood before she has developed the language to tell you

How your child develops: 3-5 years old

Viewing time: 4m 57s

What you will learn in this video:

• Rhea, mum to Kārearea, 4, and Ocean, 3, explains how parenthood – while challenging – is so rewarding
• Safety is still so key at this age – keep toxic products up high out of reach
• Ensure play areas and your garden are safe
• Children need to be physically and mentally fit to enjoy life
• Spend time together at this age is the best thing you can do as a parent – children are learning, having fun and developing
• Just interacting with them is key – no need for elaborate activities
• Try and stay away from sugar and supervise your kids when they are brushing their teeth
• Children will have a hearing and vision test at this age
• Teaching children about the environment and their heritage can help them develop resilience and a sense of self

Video: How To Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

Handling Toddler Sleep Anxiety

How to Get Your Toddler to Eat Their Vegetables

Here’s How To Be Calm Amid The Storm

Checking Your Child’s Vision: What To Look For