Your toddler gets frustrated if you 'baby' her - but she will resist if you try to push her too hard.

She fights to assert her independence, but is also afraid of being separated from you and follows you from room to room.

By 18 months, she can play happily by herself but likes to be near a familiar adult or sibling.

Let's pretend!
She loves imitating you and plays at being 'grown-up'. Give her 'pretend' adult things - toy cars, miniature kitchens and dress-up clothes. Give her a duster and a miniature broom to help you clean or a toy hammer or drill for 'DIY'. She's eager for your approval and loves to feel she is helping you.

Let your toddler join in at mealtimes
Although your toddler will still make a mess at the table, she is old enough to join in family mealtimes. Give her a spoon and her own cup. Let her try small portions of the family's food. Over the next few months, she will gradually learn to feed herself.

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