# Social-Emotional Development Guide

Support the social-emotional development of children

## 2 Month

Babies...

- like to play with their fingers, hands, feet, and toes.
- let you know they are happy by cooing, smiling, laughing, and gurgling.

## 6 Month

Babies...

- respond to your affection and may begin to show you signs of affection.
- sometimes suck on their fingers and hands to calm down.
- will sometimes stop crying when you talk to them rather than show many emotions, such as happiness, sadness, anger, and discomfort.
- respond differently to strangers than they do to family members and friends.
- imitate other children and adults. They may imitate sounds, actions, and facial expressions.

## 18 Month

Toddlers...

- are generally happy and smile at other people, including other children.
- enjoy playing near other children but not with them quite yet.
- use imagination to create stories through pretend play.
- can sometimes use their words to express themselves.
- are showing different emotions.

## 24 Month

Children...

- like to imitate you, other adults, and their friends.
- like to use the words "mine," "no," and "me."

## 30 Month

Children...

- enjoy simple pretend play. They may like pretending to do it.
- love silly jokes and have a sense of humor.
- are beginning to share. They take turns but are possessive.

## 36 Month

Children...

- now understand short and simple rules at home.
- greet familiar adults and are happy to see friends.
- like to be loved and cuddled but not in the middle of playtime.

## 48 Month

Children...

- are getting louder and bossier at times.

## 60 Month

Children...

- now play simple games such as Candy Land and Go Fish.
- are beginning to understand the meaning of right and wrong.
- may play with small groups of children at the park or at school.