social relationships

Identify and name the feelings of others. Children learn that others may have feelings that are different from their own. They learn to identify the feelings of others by using clues such as facial expressions and body language.

Recognize and care about the needs and feelings of others. Children begin to not only identify the feelings of others but also care about them. They may show empathy by expressing support (e.g., drawing a picture to cheer up a friend) or by helping (e.g., helping parents with tasks).

Understand what a friend is. Children learn that a friend is someone who cares about them and whom they care about. They learn that a friend can look different and have different likes, wants, and needs than their own.

Develop and maintain friendships. Children learn to make and keep friends by engaging in fair ways to play (playing together, trading, taking turns), inviting others to play, and entering social groups.

Cooperate with others. Children learn to work together to meet a shared goal, solving problems and resolving conflict along the way.