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Age at Which Most Children Develop Social Behaviors

by J. Hendrick|P. Weissman
Source: Pearson Allyn Bacon Prentice Hall
Topics: Child and Adolescent Development, Social and Emotional (Age 0-1), Social and Emotional (Ages 2-3), Social and Emotional (Ages 3-5), Social Development

This table summarizes many social behaviors characteristic of children at various ages.

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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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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