WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR CHILD: FOUR THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

1. Your child may now be able to understand how one concept relates to another. This will make it easier for you to teach rules such as: 'hot' objects will 'hurt' when touched. He'll start remembering that hot equals hurt and will not be as tempted to touch an item when you tell him it's 'hot'. Be sure not to push him too quickly since this is a skill that needs to mature gradually.

2. It may be time for your child's first proper haircut. You can help ease any fears by snipping a bit of your own hair first to show that it doesn't hurt. Visit the hairdresser before your scheduled appointment and allow your child to see what happens in the chair. Then, play 'hairdressers' at home and pretend to cut the 'hair' on her stuffed animals and dolls. Finally, when the big day arrives, allow her to sit on your lap rather than leaving her perched in a big unfamiliar chair. Bring a favourite toy or book in case you need something to distract your child.

3. Your child may want to dress and undress herself. However, she may not be quite ready to conquer the task without frustration. You can make it easier for her to learn by demonstrating how you get dressed, buying clothes that are easy to wriggle into and praising her when she tries to do it herself. You can also allow her to help you get her dressed: Pull her trousers up halfway and let her finish the job. While you enjoy her emerging independence, take heart in the fact that she still requires your assistance - once in a while.

4. If you are expecting another baby, you will need to properly prepare your toddler. He's bound to be curious about Mummy's growing tummy, especially when it kicks against him. Saying, 'Mummy's having a baby!' may not be enough. Begin by answering any questions your child may have. Let him know what's happening to you by showing him pictures in baby books and pictures of him when he was a newborn. Take him with you to antenatal appointments and, if possible, visit the hospital or birthing centre where you plan to give birth. Explain how fragile a newborn baby is and practice holding a doll before the baby is born. Most of all, include your toddler whenever possible and understand his potential jealousy. Spend special time with him and encourage your partner and other relatives to do the same. Help him understand that the new baby will grow up just like he did and that soon he'll have a lifelong playmate.

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YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH AND SAFETY

Be sure to consult your doctor before giving your child fluoride. Fluoride is an essential ingredient in keeping teeth healthy and strong, but did you know that too much can cause serious tooth discolouration? If supplements are recommended for your child, stick to the prescribed dosage.

Make family meals healthy. When cooking for your family, use techniques that won't destroy a food's nutritional content. Avoid overcooking your meals and enjoy raw fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Try techniques that cook foods quickly, such as steaming and sauteing rather than boiling and deep-frying. Your family will enjoy healthier meals without even realising it.

FUN TOGETHER-TIME ACTIVITIES

Build in regular story-time with your child. She is sure to enjoy sitting quietly with you to read a good book. At this age, she may be able to identify a few objects in the illustrations and help turn the pages as you read. Try letting her 'read' to you, too. Then have a conversation about the story and each character.

Allow your child to play with her food. True, you want your little one to eat properly during mealtime, but food can also provide wonderful entertainment. Schoolchildren often use dried beans as a fun way to master maths skills, and rice makes a great substitute for indoor 'sand' boxes.

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SIMPLE WAYS TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Enjoy a bedtime snack. If you're having trouble sleeping, try a carbohydrate snack shortly before bedtime. Carbohydrates can help stimulate the body to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter known to make you feel relaxed and sleepy. If, on the other hand, you need a quick boost first thing in the morning or throughout the day, try a protein-rich meal containing eggs, fish or poultry.

While a nutritional 'cure' for insomnia may not be the answer for everyone, it might be a good place to start. Be sure to consult your GP to determine any potential medical causes for this problem.

If you are still breastfeeding, you may want to start weaning your child. Reduce the daily number of feedings gradually. Try to capture your little one's attention with a toy or a game during the missed feed. He'll be less likely to notice the change if he's preoccupied with his toys. Finally, supplement with added cuddle time. This closeness will not only help your child accept the change, it will make the adjustment easier for you as well.