Don't assume he knows all this just because you take care of him. Take the time to put your love into words. Loving words that come from the heart can never be said too often. All this is perfectly normal. I am growing up.
Toddlers are more aware of their individuality and more able to do things for themselves.
They want to test their independence and power and to show you how important they are. They may do this by being negative, but that is a sign that they are growing up. Channel that wonderful growth. Your toddler needs encouragement to become more independent, but he also needs guidance and discipline. Otherwise his independence might cause him to hurt himself or others, or to be destructive.