A mother expresses frustration with her 2-year-old who says "No" and then cries for food. What insight should the nurse provide?

The insight that the toddler is asserting independence during autonomy development is particularly relevant to understanding typical behavior at this age. During the developmental stage of 1-3 years, children are learning to assert their will and express themselves, which aligns with Erikson's stage of autonomy versus shame and doubt. When a toddler says "No," it is often a demonstration of their burgeoning sense of independence and a way for them to exert control over their environment.

Crying for food after saying "No" can indicate that while they want to assert their independence, they still rely on their caregivers for basic needs, highlighting the complexity of their emotional and developmental state. This behavior is a normal part of toddler development as they navigate their desires and emotions. Understanding this allows parents to support their child's growth in autonomy while finding ways to communicate effectively about needs.