The emotional and social development of infants and toddlers begin
from birth and spans to three years of age. This is the time where this age
group develops the foundation for all social interactions. They experience
feelings and emotions for the very first time and it is up to the parents and
other adults in their lives to model and teach them how to react and behave
socially.
From birth to one year of age, they learn to communicate by
expressing their needs through crying, laughing, and eye contact. Twelve to
twenty-four months of age, these young toddlers use parallel play where they
will not interact directly with other children, rather they play side-by-side
with others. During the second year up to twenty-six months, the older toddler
should develop the ability of interacting with others among their own age group
and in pretend play. By the age of three, the toddler begins to actively use
their imagination and together, develop stories. They will begin to clearly
state their own feelings and wants by using imaginary play.
From birth
to the age of three, there are humongous social changes in both social and
emotional development in children. Parents and others that interact with infants
and toddler can positively impact them through appropriate social and emotional
interactions. This can be achieved by providing words for talking about feelings
and expressing them verbally. Other avenues would be to introduce videos and
books that teach children appropriate behaviors and manners. An adult should
respond by modeling proper behavior and by gently redirecting the child’s
actions. By demonstrating with both verbal and physical instructions in a
positive way, and by telling them the correct way to act and react, it will give
them expectations and guidelines to adhere to.
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