Toddler Two's Social Development

Toddler Twos are physically and psychologically ready for social experiences. At the same time, the combination of dependence-anxiety (fear of being left by the mother) and independence (insisting on doing everything one’s own way) can place tremendous stress on the patience and understanding of parents. Some Toddler Twos refuse to be separated from their mothers, while others are no longer completely dependent upon their caregivers for company. The more mature children can play alone; some even enjoy companionship with their age mates, but only for limited periods of time.

However, for most Toddler Twos adjusting to age mates individually or in a play group is socially very awkward. Some children feel friendly enough, but are not yet able to express themselves. A Toddler-Two will hug another child roughly or even knock the companion down because of her strong feelings. Of course, he will be shocked when he receives similar treatment. Hitting and biting are prevalent in the beginning stages of social learning.

Toddler Twos need to learn how to defend themselves quite as often as they need to be restrained from fighting. They are still consolidating their sense of self by obtaining and hoarding possessions. At three they no longer seem to surround themselves with possessions. At three-and-a-half, they establish themselves with other children and treat them as individuals. Their play has ceased to be egocentric; now they prefer cooperative play.

One of the values of the nursery school is that it provides children with many experiences and encourages them to verbalize their activities. The child becomes a human being through his language contacts. The need to communicate with other human beings is one of the strongest motivating forces for learning language.
 

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