20 Months

How your toddler's growing
At 20 months, your child could well be able to run, though not as smoothly as he will later. He may also go upstairs by himself, but he'll most likely need some help on the way down. He can probably kick a ball too, yet will not likely have got to grips with jumping or throwing overhand.

He's active in less desirable ways as well. Small children frequently resort to hitting, pushing, biting, tugging and other frowned-on actions to make themselves feel more important and also to experiment: what happens if I hit Caitlin? Will the same thing happen when I hit Justin? Don't overreact to your toddler's behaviour. If you retaliate by hitting, it teaches that hitting is OK and is a good way to get what you want. Try to keep your cool and make clear that such actions are never acceptable, no matter how intensely he's feeling. If your toddler is copying an older sibling, it's probably easier to persuade the older one to set a better example.

Toddlers are naturally curious about everything - including their genitals. Just as they played with fingers and toes when they were younger, they'll begin to play with their genitals now. It's nothing to worry about unless it's happening non-stop. When your child touches himself in public, don't make a huge fuss about it. Just explain that some things are only done at home in private.

Your life: changing family dynamics
Your toddler is very attached to you, but of course you can't always be together. When you or another important adult leaves, it can be unsettling for your child, who relies on your presence to feel secure. Ease separations by letting him know beforehand that you're going, and then don't drag out your exit.

On the other hand, you might find he's more independent than you'd like and begin to wonder where your baby went. Now's the time many parents start to plan a new addition to the family. If that's not on your agenda, you might want to think about returning to work. Some mums decide to try working from home to make life simpler. Find the right childcare for you and your child maybe with a good childminder.This can be tricky - preparing yourself and your child for this step can be a big part of your decision-making.