A toddler’s newfound mobility spurs his desire to do things for himself. Embrace your toddler’s budding independence, and help him develop the motor skills he needs to perform self-help tasks. Encourage him to play with educational toys and games, such as shape sorters and peg puzzles, to develop the finger dexterity needed for buttoning buttons and pulling on clothing. Engage him in imaginative play using puppets or stuffed animals to role-play the process of getting ready in the morning or preparing for bed. Practicing through play will help ease frustration, build confidence and prepare your toddler to tackle independent tasks.