Area of Development: Social & Emotional

Laura

Laura just met her new brother and is curious about the sounds he makes.

Her parents are busy with an 18-month-old and a newborn and want the children to get along. They encourage Laura to do a few simple things to help, like talking to the baby when he is fussy or picking up her toys.

How Your Toddler is Developing

• Trust and Emotional Security—Shows emotional connection and attachment to others.
• Self-regulation—Begins to manage own behavior and show self-regulation; shows ability to cope with stress; hows increasing independence.

Helping Your Toddler Grow

• Have photos of familiar adults and caregivers available when toddler is feeling stressed or upset and talk about the people in the photos.
• Acknowledge toddler's increasing abilities to interact with others, to get what they need or to want and solve problems.
• Make it easy for toddler to be successful with simple tasks, such as putting on shoes or helping to pick up toys.

Source: The Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress