A nurse is caring for an 18-month-old toddler who has been hospitalized for 10 days. After the toddler's mother leaves the room, the nurse observes the toddler sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb. When the nurse approaches the crib, the toddler turns away from the nurse. The nurse should understand that these behaviors indicate which of the following developmental reactions?

Walking Well: The ability to walk well typically develops around12 to 15 months. Since the child walks well, we can consider her closer to this age range.

Stating first name: By 24-30 months, most children can identify themselves by name.

Repeating Phrases (“All done” and “Go bye-bye”): Repeating phrases is common around15 to 18 months. The child’s language development aligns with this stage.

24 Deciduous Teeth: By the age of2 to 3 years, children typically have all 20 deciduous (baby) teeth. Since this child has 24 deciduous teeth, she is likely closer to the2-year-oldmark.

Closed Anterior Fontanel: The anterior fontanel (soft spot on the baby’s head) usually closes by18 months. The fact that it is closed indicates that the child is beyond this age.

Child is most likely 30 months old.

A.Toddlers experience slowed growth compared to infancy, leading to a natural decrease in appetite (physiologic anorexia). Instead of increasing caloric intake, parents should be encouraged to offer nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent meals and avoid pressuring the child to eat.

B.Tantrums are common in toddlers as they begin to assert independence but struggle with emotional regulation. Parents should use strategies such as remaining calm, setting clear limits, offering choices when appropriate, and using positive reinforcement to help manage tantrums effectively.

C.Establishing trust is a key developmental task of infancy (Erikson’s trust vs. mistrust stage). In toddlerhood (autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage), the focus is on developing independence, so guidance should focus on setting boundaries, providing choices, and allowing safe exploration rather than trust-building alone.

D.Cooperative play is typically aimed at older preschoolers and not toddlers, who are still developing social skills and tend to engage in parallel play rather than cooperative play.

E.Early dental hygiene is crucial for preventing cavities and establishing good oral health habits. Parents should begin brushing their toddler's teeth with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste and schedule the first dental visit by 12 months of age or within 6 months of the first tooth eruption.