Fostering Social Development
Social development in infants and toddlers involves how young children build relationships and participate in shared experiences. From the earliest months, infants respond to social cues like eye contact and voice, while toddlers begin to take turns, cooperate, and engage with peers (Kaywork, 2019).
Skills and Competencies needed in Teaching:
Educators support social development by building secure, trusting relationships with children and families. They model respectful interactions and teach positive peer relationships. Through inclusive environments and intentional teaching, educators promote belonging and support social understanding by responding to children’s cues and individual social needs.
Relevant theories
Lev Vygotsky believed that social interaction is the foundation of learning and development. His concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) explains how children learn best with support from a more experienced person (Beloglovsky & Daly, 2015).
Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory also informs early development. In Stage 1 (Trust vs. Mistrust), infants develop trust when caregivers respond consistently and affectionately (Nolan & Raban, 2015).
Approaches to Promoting Social Growth, Learning, and Well-being
Approches
Authentic Curricumlum Provision (Social Focus)
Learning Opportunities
Infants (0–12 months)
Mirror Play
Goal: Build self-awareness and early social connection
How: Sit with the infant in front of a mirror and talk about what you both see
Social Focus: Recognition of self and others, shared attention
Toddlers (12–24 months)
Puppet Play
Goal: Explore social roles and emotions
How: Use puppets to act out feelings or simple social scenarios
Social Focus: Emotional expression, conversation, imitation
Toddlers (2–3 years)
Circle Games (e.g., Ring-a-Ring o' Roses)
Goal: Promote group participation and rhythm
How: Hold hands in a circle, sing, and move together
Social Focus: Group coordination, joy in shared play
Activities Collection
Hello Hello song
The More we get together
Humpty Dumpty
Parachute game
Ring a ring a Rosie