Stimulating socio - emotional development: 13 - 18 months

"Communication with close people expands, there are more diverse joint activities and interactions during daily activities and play. The child is happy to engage in active exploration. He expresses his desires. Frustrations are inevitable, and with them stronger emotional reactions and protests. You are here to understand and help."

Regulation of feelings and behaviors

Your child is showing increasing initiative. He is interested in the space around him, objects and other people. The child has already learned to understand your reactions. Stay close and encourage safe exploration. React positively to desirable behaviors, show and share joy with the child. React calmly when the child is upset or angry. Your reactions shape the child's inner experience and feelings.

Setting boundaries 

The child begins to encounter boundaries for the first time. Sometimes a child's reactions can be strong. It is a new experience and it takes time for the child's personal desires and behaviors to adjust to your requirements. Your actions are the best teaching examples. Say what you want, give a short explanation. Be clear in your expectations, consistent in setting boundaries, and calm when reacting to unwanted behaviors. 

Relationships with others

The child shows curiosity about other people and their actions. He begins to show interest in other children - he observes and approaches them. Give your child a chance to meet different people, other children. Make meetings a part of everyday life. Some children may show timidity, while others are active in seeking contact. Give the child time to relax, be close to be able to provide adequate support.

Seeking attention

The child is asking for your attention. During play and other activities, he asks for confirmation that he has been seen. Satisfy this important need. Look at your child when he approaches you, smile back when he smiles at you, see him off with a look and comment when he shows you something. Praise the child when he shows you what he has succeeded in, give comfort when he asks for it. Your reactions show the child that he is important. Positive confirmations strengthen the inner feeling of achievement and satisfaction.