Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Emotional and Social Development (ESD)

Subdomain: Developing a Sense of Self

Goal: Children demonstrate a positive sense of self-identify and self-awareness.

Skill Progression: Awareness of self through emotional expressions and verbalizations

Age: 27-30 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 27-30 Months.

Talk to the child while reading a picture book about a young child.

Talk about the characteristics of the child in the book. Ask questions or discuss how the child is the same or different from the character.

Listen for the child’s understanding of his age, physical characteristics, etc. Understanding of concrete characteristics precedes understanding of abstract characteristics.

Help early childhood educators and parents understand that knowing one’s characteristics is important for children to understand who they are and how they are alike or different from others. Encourage parents to talk about the traits of different family members during daily activities or when reading stories.