Social & Emotional Development of the Infant

When do infants typically start smiling?

Around 2 months

At what age do infants usually begin to laugh?

Around 6 months

When does an infant develop a range of facial expressions?

Around 9 months

When does stranger anxiety appear and what does it mean?

Appears 9–24 months — infant recognizes self as separate from others

When does separation anxiety occur and what does it indicate?

9–24 months — infant becomes distressed when caregiver leaves

What social milestone occurs at 15 months?

Copies play, claps in excitement, hugs toys/caregiver

What is the main emotional theme of toddlerhood?

Independence and autonomy

When do toddlers begin to recognize distress in others?

Around 2 years old

What type of play is seen at 30 months?

Parallel play — plays near others but not directly with them

What is the emotional pattern at 3 years old? (Pre School)

Can separate from parents calmly within 10 minutes

What new social ability develops at 4 years? (Pre School)

Pretends, shows empathy, seeks other children, “little helper”

What are typical 5-year-old behaviors?

Follows rules, takes turns, performs, helps with simple chores

What is the emotional focus of the preschool stage?

Imagination, empathy, and cooperation

What are key emotional traits between 6–8 years?

Independence, teamwork, forming friendships, future orientation

What develops during 9–11 years?

More complex peer relationships, increased body awareness, importance of friends

Emotional characteristics of 12–14 years?

Focus on self, body image, peer influence, moodiness, romantic interest begins

Emotional characteristics of 15–17 years?

Strong peer and romantic relationships, independence from parents, risk of anxiety/depression

Core emotional goal of adolescence?

Identity and independence