| By the end of the 1st year, the child: |
By the end of the 2nd year, the child: |
By the end of the 3rd year, the child: |
By the end of the 4th year, the child: |
By the end of the 5th year, the child: |
- Plays peek-a-boo
- Exhibits anxious behavior, such as crying when primary caregiver leaves
- Likes to "test" adults and see their reactions; might drop food repeatedly or tip over a cup
- Shows signs that primary caregiver(s) are preferred over all others; will hold arms out to primary caregiver
- Gets attention by repeating sounds and making gestures
- Likes to play with adults and will initiate interaction
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- Engages in imaginary play
- Observes adults and older children and likes to imitate their behavior
- Is excited to be around other children
- May use aggression to get what she wants; will be possessive of toys
- Shows signs of independence; tries to put on shoes by herself
- Shows increased interest in adult language
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- Observes adults and playmates and imitates them frequently
- Uses imaginary play often, especially with dolls, animals, and people
- Is comfortable hugging familiar playmates
- Is able to take turns
- Knows the concept of "mine" and "his/hers"
- Demonstrates that signs of empathy are present; will hug a friend who fell down
- Enjoys participating in small group activities
- Knows how to show more self-control
- Is able to express feelings such as fear, anger, and affection
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- Enjoys playing with friends in imaginary games such as "House"
- Is intrigued by new situations
- Knows how to interact with friends in a cooperative manner
- Is beginning to use own words to resolve conflicts
- Becomes increasingly more independent
- Is becoming more detailed and creative in fantasy play
- Gains more control of intense feelings like anger, but still needs adult guidance
- Has an awareness of what is expected of her
- Is increasingly more confident with self-help skills like dressing and eating
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- Has friends and wants to please them
- Feels the importance of being accepted by her friends
- Recognizes rules and is compliant with them
- Likes to engage in movement, acting, and singing
- Continues to display more independence
- Is likely to have a best friend because social life is important
- Has a very strong sense of right and wrong
- Engages in elaborate pretend play with friends
- Has an understanding of rejection and the powerful feeling it creates, i.e., "You aren't my friend."
- Uses words to express angry feelings, rather than aggression
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