Emotional development is one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of early childhood. Between the ages of 1 and 3, toddlers begin to experience and express a wide range of emotions. Learning how to support these big feelings helps your child build the foundation for emotional intelligence, empathy, and healthy relationships.
Dr. Linnea Grant, Child Psychologist: “Emotional milestones aren’t just about fewer tantrums. They’re about a toddler’s growing ability to feel, express, and manage emotions in a world that’s still very new to them.”
Key Emotional Milestones by Age
12–18 Months
✔️ Expresses emotions like joy, fear, and frustration
✔️ Begins to show affection to familiar people
✔️ May experience separation anxiety
18–24 Months
✔️ Shows more independence (but still needs closeness)
✔️ Begins to use simple words to express feelings
✔️ May throw tantrums when overwhelmed
2–3 Years
✔️ Names emotions like happy, sad, or mad
✔️ Starts showing empathy (e.g., comforting others)
✔️ Practices impulse control (with help)
How to Support Emotional Growth
1. Label Emotions Out Loud
✔️ “You’re upset because we had to leave the park.”
✔️ Helps your toddler connect feelings with language
2. Validate and Stay Calm
✔️ Acknowledge their feelings without judgment
✔️ Your calm response models emotional regulation
3. Offer Simple Choices
✔️ Letting them choose between two options builds confidence and reduces power struggles
4. Create a Predictable Routine
✔️ Toddlers feel safer and more in control when they know what to expect
Dr. Mikaela Jones, Pediatric Development Expert: “Validation doesn’t mean giving in—it means saying, ‘I hear you,’ which is powerful for a child just learning to trust their inner world.”
Tools That Help Toddlers Express Feelings
✔️ Emotion flashcards or books about feelings
✔️ Dolls or stuffed animals for role play
✔️ Calm-down corners with soft pillows and sensory items
✔️ Art materials for creative expression
Red Flags to Discuss with a Pediatrician
While all toddlers develop differently, talk to your doctor if: ✔️ Your child shows no interest in people or doesn’t respond to emotions
✔️ Tantrums are constant, intense, and disruptive beyond age 3
✔️ There’s no use of language or emotional response by 2 years old
The Role of Moogco Silver Nursing Cups
Supporting your toddler emotionally means you need to feel supported too. If you’re still nursing, Moogco Silver Nursing Cups offer soothing relief for sore nipples—because your comfort matters, too.
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Final Thoughts: Feelings First, Skills Later
Your toddler is learning how to be in the world. The best gift you can give them is empathy, patience, and guidance. With your support, they’ll grow into emotionally strong, compassionate little humans.
🛒 Explore toddler development tools and comfort items at Moogco Baby.
