Stimulating socio-emotional development: 24 - 36 months

"A child is showing more and more interest in joint activities with other children. Games are becoming more complex and diverse. Games with imagination and role-playing give additional impetus to the development of opinions, language, relationships with others and personal identity. Feelings become more complex."

The importance of playing with peers

  • Playing time with peers is increasing. Occasional conflicts and frustrations are inevitable. Through experience, the child becomes better at recognizing and aligning personal needs with the needs of others. The ability to empathize - to notice and accept the feelings of others - develops.
  • Create opportunities for contact with other children. Kindergarten, playrooms, parks, as well as visits to other families with small children, are important events in your child's life.
  • If your child is more shy, be encouraging but patient. Don't push, give the child time to cope.
  • If your child is more restless and not careful enough, be close. React when needed. Give clear instructions and be consistent.

Independence

  • Encouraging independence is of great importance for the development of your child's personality. Successful independent actions create a feeling of satisfaction and pride. You are here to show, help and praise.
  • Use daily activities to encourage your child to be more independent. Doing personal hygiene, feeding, dressing are ideal opportunities for that.
  • Give your child a chance to do something for you, to bring you something. Show that it means something to you, praise the child for being able to do it.
  • Recognize and support children's attempts, even when they fail. The child will not give up, and next time it will be easier.

Cooperation

  • The child is more and more aware of his desires. He can be persistent in achieving what he wants and at the same time show various negative feelings and undesirable behaviors. You may feel helpless or angry about it. Know that your child feels the same way.
  • Listen to what the child wants to tell you. Show understanding for your child's wishes. Explain what is allowed and what isn't. Praise the child when he shows a willingness to cooperate. You can offer something else that the child likes as a reward.
  • Tell the child that you know how he or she is feeling, name the feeling that you recognize in the child, and explain why the wish cannot be fulfilled.
  • Do not comment negatively or get angry at the child. Show understanding and calmness. Be clear, give brief explanations and be consistent. Your self-control and clear rules are of great help to the child.