Families

At this stage, relationships are influenced by a child’s individual personality and cultural background. Expectation of developmental milestones for children will vary by culture, and adults need to be sensitive to that.
During this stage, young infants depend heavily on assistance from adults to meet both their psychological and emotional needs. Sensitive care sends the message the world is safe, and they can trust others. Non-responsive care relays to them that people and the environment are inconsistent and untrustworthy. Without trust, it’s difficult for them to take risks or develop a positive sense of self.

Toddlers learn to adapt their emotions and feelings within certain settings and with certain people. At this time, they have limited verbal skills so they often express their feelings through actions.

There are three components of emotional and social development in infants and toddlers:

Trust and emotional security: This is developed as a result of relationships with adults—family members, caregivers and teachers. They provide the foundation that supports exploration, learning, and the development of other relationships.
Self-regulation: Here, infants and toddlers develop the ability to manage needs and emotions. Eventually, they go from helplessness to competence by learning to complete tasks and convey their needs.
Self-concept: Children develop a sense of self as increasingly competent and confident, which comes from positive relationships.

Bottom line: Nurturing parents, caregivers and teachers who offer a balance of simple choices and boundaries are supporting each child’s developing sense of confidence and independence.

Preschoolers (3-5 years old)

Emotional and social readiness impacts preschoolers’ transition into kindergarten, and is critical for their early school success and wellbeing later in life. Research shows children who express their feelings, and show understanding for the feelings of others, cooperate with others, resolve conflicts, and are more likely to be successful. These skills are established through relationships with adults. A child’s personality impacts his or her emotional development; therefore, teachers should be respectful of each individual child.

Self-concept: This is when they participate in classroom activities, explore and interact with others with growing confidence and self-direction.
Self-control: They are now increasingly able to follow classroom rules and routines, use class materials carefully and manage transitions. Sometimes they need reminders.
Relationships with adults: Preschoolers start initiating interactions by asking questions, keeping conversations going, seeking assistance appropriately and recognizing feelings.
Relationships with peers: They are able to engage peers in conversation and participate in group activities.
Social problem solving: Children begin to use less physical means to solve problems, and instead use more positive strategies, including asking questions, negotiating and seeking adult help.

Bottom line: Positive relationships with adults encourages positive relationships with peers, and produces children who are secure and confident, and can master new learning challenges.

Emotional and social development

Infants and Toddlers (0-36 months)

Preschoolers (3-5 years old)