Observe the children during play times in the classroom. Also listen to their remarks about other children in the class.
No elicitation needed.
Children choose playmates who not only like the same types of play, but those who also have similar personalities (boisterous, quiet, friendly, etc.).
Help children accept individual differences by commenting on the strengths that each child displays. Early childhood educators and parents can help children be inclusive by giving suggestions for how to respond to their peers who may have disabilities. For example, the early childhood educator or parent may model and/or tell children how to respond to a child’s tantrums or withdrawal; how to involve children who are lower functioning in play; or how to communicate with children with language concerns.
 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015
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