Help! My Toddler Is Always Testing Safety Limits

“My toddler is CONSTANTLY testing safety limits. Is this common?”

Answer: I know it’s hard, but it’s absolutely developmentally appropriate! They are learning SO much- about their bodies, how their bodies relate to their environment, spatial awareness, strength & coordination, etc, etc, etc!

My best advice is to focus on your language (while keeping them as safe as possible, obviously!). Our language can have a big impact on helping them figure out their bodies and spatial awareness – and it can be as small as instead of saying “Be careful!”, call attention to what they’re doing!

For example – instead of “Be careful”, you could say something like:

• “Wow! Look how high up you are! How does that make you feel?!”

• “Wow! You’re so tall when you’re on that! How do you think you’ll get down?!”

And then, consider if it’s possible to give them a safer outlet for what they seem to be craving, especially if they are getting into actually dangerous situations that don’t allow that type of feedback because it’s a safety concern. You could try an obstacle course, going to the park, or even having them push a heavy laundry basket are some things that I find helpful!

Ultimately, know that you’re not alone and that it is definitely a part of learning and motor development!

WANT MORE?

For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.

KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.