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

Subdomain: Developing a Sense of Self

Goal: Children express positive feelings about themselves and confidence in what they can do.

Skill Progression: Expresses confidence in abilities and persistence toward goals

Age: 36-42 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 36-42 Months.

Examine what the child does with unrelated materials to create representational art or dramatic play scenarios.

Propose a theme for dramatic play or watch what the child does when a mixture of various art materials or junk are presented. Comment, ask questions, and make small suggestions to stimulate the child’s imagination.

The child uses objects in unusual ways.

Suggest to early childhood educators and parents that imagination and creativity are very important for learning. Adults often emphasize pre-academic skills, but using skills in creative ways is also important. Adults play a key role in providing the junk, left-over materials, inspiration and freedom to explore and create.