A relatively handy reference for the toddler years. The book is broken down into sections by age and answers some of the more common questions about child development.

I didn't love the format, but I did find answers to some of my questions. I probably wouldn't have bought this book on my own, but having been handed down a free copy made it worth while. ( )

By the time you are reading What to Expect the Toddler Years, you already know what to expect (hah) from the book format. A massive reference book on a particular topic in parenting, broken up into small sections, corresponding to age level, and written in a friendly and familiar tone that provides information as if you are old friends with the authors. This book, being about the toddler years, addresses a wide variety of topics that parents may expect to see in their children from the second year through the third. The first part of the book looks at everything by month, although it begins grouping several months together at the start of the third year. The second part of the book deals with topics that apply to all toddlers, such as health and safety and basic care, and the third part is about the relationship between the toddler and the family. The book concludes with a fourth reference section.

I appreciate this series. It has given me a lot of information over the years, and I can tell that the writers work hard to make their answers on different topics apply to as wide a range of parents as possible. They have their particular views on parenting - for instance, they adamantly oppose any form of physical discipline, even spanking, which I don't use personally but I do know some parents who use that form of discipline safely (key word) and effectively - as do all parenting manuals, but they try to be objective. Since this is a reference for the toddler years in general, the authors don't dwell in great detail on every topic, but they cover so much that it is very handy as a mom to just pull this book out and search the index for whatever random new parenting challenge arises. I do wish they would use years and months, instead of just months - really, am I an odd parent for considering my child two years and two months old, instead of twenty six months? - but that is a small complaint. When I am dealing with an issue in parenting that I need particular help with, I seek out other books that are devoted just to that problem, but this book serves as a good general guide, a reminder of things I can improve on, and a place to find quick answers. ( )

Decent books, though not indispensable and in my opinion not really worthy of the popularity they've received. ( )

How can I get my toddler talking?
My daughter's nearly three and still not potty trained. What can I do?
Is there any way to avoid my toddler's tantrums?
How important is nursery school?
My toddler is a fussy eater -- how can I be sure he's eating what he should?

Overflowing with intelligence and good common sense, this comprehensive guide provides clear explanations and useful guidelines on everything a parent might want to know about the second and third years of their child's life. On a month-by-month basis, What To Expect The Toddler Years explains what a toddler will be able to do at that age, and what to expect in the months ahead. Featuring topics from potty-training to sleeping problems, disciplining to how to encourage learning and thinking, this book covers it all -- including invaluable advice on how parents can make time for themselves in the midst of it all.

What to Expect the Toddler Years is an essential guide to keeping a toddler safe, healthy and -- above all -- happy.