Things your toddler may do during this period

• Become more independent
• Continuous expansion of vocabulary

Effects hospitalization may have on your toddler

• Routines may be altered (meals, play and sleep schedules)
• May demonstrate frustration with restrictions (I.V., monitors, etc.)
• Regression in development may occur (making it easier to cope with changes of hospitalization)
• See illness and treatment as punishment
• May show anger towards you a safe person (i.e. parent)

Ways to support your toddler’s development in a hospital setting

• Have parent or primary caregiver present
• Follow routines if possible
• Ask for consistent caregiver when available (nurse)
• Bring familiar/comfort items from home (toy, blanket, etc.)
• Let your toddler make choices when possible. 
•  Fill out “Things To Know About Me” and post over crib
• Use crib/bed as a safe space
• Avoid the crib for any type of procedure