North Carolina Early Learning and Development Progressions: Birth to Five

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

Subdomain: Developing a Sense of Self with Others

Goal: Children form relationships and interact positively with other children

Skill Progression: Positive social interactions

Age: 33-36 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 33-36 Months.

Demonstrates associative play (playing together with same materials, but not with same goals); imitates actions and incorporates others’ ideas in play sequences

Situations for Observation of Skill

Observe the child in play with peers. If no peer is available the adult can be a play partner. Have motivating dramatic play props related to daily routines or favorite stories or other theme related materials available.

Elicitation Strategy

If spontaneous play is not initiated by the child, the adult may prompt ideas to stimulate interaction.

Behavior Observed

Play expands to include all children’s ideas, but it is not coordinated toward a mutual plan. Ideas grow from a combination of imitation and suggestion.

Routines-based Intervention (Embedded Instruction)

Opportunities for children to play together are important, particularly if the child is going to enter preschool at age 3. Encourage parents to have play dates and spend time at the park with other children. Teach parents how to mediate and handle conflicts among children.

 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015

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