Personal and Social Development in a Toddler

Personal and social development in a toddler is a balancing act that involves learning to accept and adapt to society's demand while seeking independence when he discovers he's a separate being. At least that's the recognized personal-social development theory proposed by the late renowned psychoanalyst Erik H. Erikson. Exploring boundaries, breaking rules, learning to play with others and stretching his developmental limits are all on the mind of the always busy toddler.

  1. Significance

    • Erikson was the first mental health expert to suggest that a child's biological makeup -- or genetically programmed temperament -- is only a piece of the personal and social development puzzle. Toddlers are learning to do things for themselves such as using the toilet, walking and running. Toddlers are also increasing their vocabulary at a rapid pace, which greatly improves their ability to communicate with you and others. Society̵7;s expectations, prejudices and prohibitions also play a big role in the molding of a child, as do yours, notes Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas. For example, a toddler may feel ashamed and question her ability to become self-sufficient if her parents object to her desire for autonomy or are overprotective.

    Social Interactions

    • A 2-year-old loves to mimic the behavior of older children and adults, but he is still socially immature. Young toddlers would rather play by themselves, but as time goes on, they will become more interested in playing or at least being around other kids. Chasing games top the list of fun social interactions for a 2-year-old, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A 2-year-old is also capable of relating to another person's feelings. He may even comfort a sad or hurt playmate. Make-believe play with dolls, stuffed animals or other children allows a toddler to nurture his creative side. Pretend play also helps develop social and language skills.

    Personal Growth

    • Toddlers are on a relentless mission to stretch their independence to the max. A never-ending quest for autonomy leaves a parent bouncing back and forth between watching out for her fearless child's safety and reminding her of what̵7;s OK and what̵7;s unacceptable when she misbehaves. Personal growing pains can erupt when a toddler is mentally or physically unable to complete a desired task, whether it's failing to catch a ball or complete a simple puzzle. Frustration and anger over her temporary ineptitude can lead to temper tantrums that include stomping, screaming, crying and sometimes breath-holding.

    Outlook

    • Apart from a toddler's defiant moments, he will learn to negotiate solutions to disagreements as he gets closer to his third birthday, explains HealthyChildren.org, a website published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. By age 3, your little one will get a kick out of new adventures like climbing a jungle gym or pushing a playmate on a swing. He's also becoming more agreeable about waiting his turn. Providing your toddler the opportunity to engage in social activities in a safe and nurturing environment (such as a playgroup) can help your toddler discover the joy in making friends, points out ZerotoThree.org, a website published by National Center for Infants, Toddlers and Families.

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