How might a toddler's mood be characterized?

A toddler's mood can indeed be characterized as "always smiling or often irritable." This reflects the emotional fluctuations that are typical during toddlerhood. At this stage, children are developing their emotional regulation skills, and it’s common for their moods to change rapidly due to new experiences, emerging independence, and their ability to express feelings.

Toddlers may express joy and excitement in one moment, resulting in smiles and laughter, and then become easily frustrated or irritated in another moment, particularly when faced with challenges or when their desires are not met. This duality in mood is part of their ongoing development as they learn to navigate their emotions and understand social interactions.

Other mood characteristics might not completely capture the essence of toddler behavior. For instance, toddlers are not usually consistent and calm due to their high energy levels and emotional volatility. Similarly, while they can be active and curious, the full range of their moods encompasses moments of irritability as well. Adaptability can vary significantly among toddlers, as some may struggle more than others to cope with new situations. Thus, "always smiling or often irritable" captures a broader scope of how toddlers experience and express their emotions day-to-day.