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

Subdomain: Learning About Feelings

Goal: Children identify, manage, and express their feelings.

Skill Progression: Self-control

Age: 4-6 Months

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Observe the child during daily routines and/or play time.

No elicitation may be needed if the infant does not like certain routines (such as diapering). If the child is typically compliant, assertion of preferences can be seen during play. Present a preferred toy and a non-preferred toy. Once the child takes the preferred toy, remove it and give her the non-preferred option.

The child asserts her will by dropping the non-preferred toy and leaning and/or reaching toward the desired toy. Fussiness and negative vocalizations may also indicate desires.

Give the infant choices during the day between two toys. This lets her know she can have some say in her world.