A nurse is teaching the parents of a 6-month-old infant about age-specific growth and development. Which statement is true regarding infant development? Select all that apply.

At this age, children have developed the physical coordination and balance necessary to navigate stairs with more control and safety. They may still require support from holding onto the railing for added stability and security. As children grow older, they continue to refine their motor skills, balance, and coordination, and by the age of 4, 5, and 6 years, they typically demonstrate more advanced stair-descending skills, such as alternating feet and using the railing less for support.

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.