Parents of a toddler express concerns for "naughty" behavior when the toddler drops toys and other items from their highchair or when held. What actions would the nurse recommend in response to the parent's concern? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale Using a stern voice and firm "no" can be counterproductive for a toddler, who is primarily exploring cause-and-effect relationships and developing autonomy, not intentionally misbehaving in a "naughty" way. While discipline is necessary, positive reinforcement and redirection are more effective strategies for this age group, as harsh correction can lead to shame and negativity. Choice B rationale Ignoring the "naughty" behavior of dropping objects is not the best approach, as the toddler is seeking a response and developing object permanence and spatial awareness. The behavior should be gently and consistently redirected to a more acceptable activity that meets the same developmental need, such as stacking blocks or playing with containers. Choice C rationale The dropping of items is a normal and essential developmental milestone attainment in a toddler (12-36 months). This behavior is an experiment with gravity, object permanence, and cause-and-effect. Parents should be educated that this is a sign of healthy cognitive development, not naughtiness, and should be supported through positive redirection. Choice D rationale Encouraging the child to place objects in a container, such as a shape sorter or bucket, is a positive redirection that satisfies the toddler's developmental drive to explore object manipulation, release, and containment. This strategy channels the natural exploratory behavior into a constructive and safer activity, which is an effective parenting intervention. Choice E rationale Arranging a neurodevelopmental assessment is an unnecessary and premature step, as the described behavior of dropping objects is a typical and expected feature of normal cognitive and motor development in the toddler stage. Neurodevelopmental assessment is reserved for concerns that fall outside the typical range of developmental milestones and behaviors. Choice F rationale Observing the child work to retrieve a toy that is out of reach supports the development of problem-solving skills, spatial reasoning, and motor planning. The behavior of dropping items is an experiment to learn how to manipulate the environment, and parents should be encouraged to allow and support this healthy, necessary exploratory play.