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: 18-21 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 18-21 Months.

Watch after the child’s bath when drying her off in front of the mirror or in the bedroom when the child is dressing with a full length mirror.

Provide dress-up clothes for siblings and adults along with a long mirror. As you pull out hats, gloves, etc. ask the child who should get the items. When all are dressed up stand in front of the mirror and talk about each person’s clothing.

The child names the persons who should get items. When looking in the mirror, she describes who has the white hat, etc.

Differentiation of self from others is important. This begins with basic visual differences and later goes to more abstract characteristics. Encourage parents to use names and talk about differences among family members (big, brown hair, etc.).