As they say, without emotions humans would be as good as well designed machines. Emotions act as an enabler in the formation of social structure. Kids start exhibiting and learning new social & emotional skills as early as from 3rd month of being in existence! A few of them are as below:-
- Smiles spontaneously, especially at people.
- Shows excitement by waving arms and legs.
- Calms and stops crying when comforted (most of the time).
- Enjoys playing with people and imitating smiles and frowns.
- Knows familiar faces and begins to know if someone is a stranger.
- Enjoys playing with others, especially family (such as “peek-a-boo”).
- Likes to look at self in a mirror.
- Responds to other people’s emotions and often seems happy.
- Makes sounds to express happiness or displeasure.
- Shows feelings by smiling, crying and pointing.
- Prefers certain people and toys.
- Clings to familiar adults.
- Cries when parent leaves and is shy around strangers.
- Responds to own name.
- Imitates sounds, gestures or actions to get parent’s attention.
- Puts arm or leg out to help with dressing.
- Enjoys playing games like “peek-a-boo” and “pat-a-cake.”
