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 18 to 24 Months
EATING
If your child hasn't already gotten rid of the bottle, this is the recommended time to do it. If you worry about your toddler not drinking as much from a cup as from the bottle, rest assured that along with the switch to cow's milk (at a year of age), comes a decreased milk requirement, down to a minimum of approximately 16 ounces a day (instead of 20-32 ounces of formula when less than a year old). While some toddlers enjoy using their fingers and making a mess at mealtime, many also glory in their ability to use a fork and a spoon. Don't hesitate to lay down some basic ground rules about mealtime behavior, and then let your child be as independent as possible. Remember that while most toddlers are completely done with baby food at this age, they are still prone to choking — especially on foods that are the same size as the airway (such as sliced hot dogs), are slippery and round (such as grapes), and those that are hard to chew (such as raisins and nuts). SLEEPING By the time they turn two, almost all toddlers are down to one nap a day, and a few may even try to convince you that they're ready to get rid of naps altogether. However, just about all toddlers who are approaching two years of age still benefit from, and need, a nap. Between 18 and 24 months, the average toddler goes from sleeping 13 1/2 hours to 13 hours in each 24-hour period, with an average of just under two hours spent napping during the day. Maintaining a soothing and enjoyable bedtime routine, complete with time set aside to read books, can help limit bedtime refusal and increase the likelihood that your toddler will get a good night's sleep. PLAYING Play is an important way for your toddler to try out new skills and imitate the things she sees around her. However, don't set your expectations too high when it comes to sharing. Children this age are generally not able to share, and still prefer parallel play to interactive play with other children. While there is a great temptation to buy lots of toys with which to entertain your child, remind yourself that simply spending time with you and exploring her surroundings can offer your child (and you) plenty of hours of enjoyment. 
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