Social & Emotional Development

My two oldest sons are best friends. In many ways, I feel I am blessed because of this. But if I decide to dwell, I have to admit that the reason they get along so well is because the 9 year old aspie has about the same social and emotional skills as the 5 year old. And to think that he will be starting Jr. High in two short years. (This scares me to death!) Which brings me to the subject of this post.

0-6 Months
• Reacts to discomfort and pain
• Recognizes parent’s voice
• Makes eye contact
• Shows affection by looking, waving, kicking and smiling
• Shows feelings of security when held or talked to
• Expresses delight
• May form attachment to one special object
• Laughs when tickled
• Builds trust when cries are answered
• May begin to cling to primary caregiver

6-12 Months

• Enjoys being with other children
• Has an increased drive for independence
• Expresses anger more dramatically
• Has a fear of strangers
• Is aware of social approval or disapproval
• Performs for others
• Has pride in personal accomplishments

12-18 Months
• Prefers to keep caregiver in sight while exploring environment
• Demands personal attention
• May reveal stubbornness
• Unable to share
• Responds to simple

18-24 Months
• Is possessive
• Begins to show empathy
• Reveals a sense of trust
• Begins to play next to children
• Shows emotions of pride and embarrassment
• May dawdle
• Engages in imaginative play
• Tests limits of behavior
• Performs for an audience

2-3 Years Old
• Has a strong sense of ownership
• May begin cooperative play
• May show need for security object
• Is becoming more independent

4-5 Years Old
• Enjoys being with other children
• Has an increased drive for independence
• Expresses anger more dramatically
• Is aware of social approval or disapproval
• Performs for others
• Has pride in personal accomplishments
• Develops sex role identification
• Begins taking turns and negotiating

6-10 Years Old
• Has about 5 good friends
• Has at least one peer they dislike
• Tends to be bossy and/or protective of younger children

• Begins to understand that people have different points of views

 For more information go to
ACT • Quality Professional Development for Childhood Care and Education Professionals.
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