Developing Relationships With Others

As a two year old's social world expands, so do the interactions they have with people other than their parents. Peer relationships are emerging for two year old's. I met 30 month old CJ and her family five months ago when she entered the program. Mom was very concerned about CJ's social skills because she did not interact much with other children her age and adults. Mom also had some concerns about her language development. Mom set several goals, which included attending socials on a regular basis and exposing her to other settings, such as story time at the library. What a difference 5 months makes in the development of a child! CJ is communicating quite effectively using four to six word sentences. She is beginning to enjoy being around other children and expanding beyond parallel play. She greets me with a hug on every visit and is "OK" if mom leaves the room. Mom stated that this time in CJ's childhood has been so gratifying as she observes the competence CJ has developed in her social emotional development. JM