Socialization is the process by which children adjust to groups and learn the rules of behavior. It begins in infancy and progresses through various life stages. As children develop intellectually, they also develop socially by progressing through age-appropriate behavioral milestones. Below is a brief guide to the topic of child development and socialization.

Key Socialization Skills

Separating

To help your child learn to interact comfortably with diverse people and backgrounds, they need opportunities to be in the company of others outside the family. Help them move from isolation into groups of peers by arranging play dates with similarly aged children.

You shouldn’t expect much interaction between young toddlers. It’s sufficient to let them occupy the same space and play alone if they prefer. As they grow more tolerant of each other, they’ll begin to notice what the other is doing, and some exchanges may take place. Outings to parks, playgrounds, and zoos will provide additional opportunities for engaging with other children.

Sharing

Toddlers often see other children as rivals. It takes time for them to overcome jealousy and learn to enjoy the company. After their first birthday, you can begin to encourage your child to share games and toys. Kids start sharing slowly; however, they’ll worry less about their possessions and feel more confident about cooperating, over time.

Listening & Expressing

By age three, children are more socially aware. They can also listen to and follow directions and will typically use words to express thoughts and emotions. Participation in group activities will be more comfortable as they learn the values of fairness and taking turns. As a parent, you can model the dynamic nature of conversation by taking turns listening and expressing.

Agents of Socialization

Within the family, with peers at a preschool learning center, and school with teachers and classmates, children learn to socialize through a feedback loop. They watch and observe those around them, model the behaviors and skills they witness, evaluate their actions, modify their approaches, and try again.

As children age into adolescence, their peer group increases in significance. They’ll often express themselves with clothing, music, and speech their classmates prefer. Although your child may struggle with finding the right balance between fitting in and being true to themselves, your calm presence will support them to make productive life choices.

Lil Smarties Learning Centers in Ferguson, MO, provides an enriching environment for children from birth to age 13 to learn, grow, and socialize. Their staff and teachers will help your children evolve into caring and responsible teenagers with a variety of child development programs and activities that engage hearts, minds, and emotions. If you need preschool, a day camp, or aftercare for your children, call (314) 473-1233 to discuss how they can serve you. Visit them online for more information about their services.