- Children start understanding relationship and social connections from very early age. The children aged around 2 years start connecting with their caregivers. They form strong attachments to primary caregivers (usually parents). This bond is crucial for their sense of security and trust. They can recognize and express basic emotions like happiness, sadness, anger, and fear.
I remember an incidence, once I was in a family function where 4-5 of us were sitting in a corner, suddenly my 1.5 year old daughter comes with 2 sweet pieces in her hand. She directly comes to me and hands over one piece of sweet to me. At this point of time it came to my mind, how did she give that sweet piece only to me and not to others in the group which was seated. I started questioning myself how come my 1.5 year old child knows I am special to her. How children start connecting strongly to their parents.
We need to make sure that we support children in understanding and developing positive relationships, social understanding and care. At age 2, they enjoy playing with other children and can engage in simple social interactions like sharing toys or taking turns.
How to Nurture Relationships:
Responsive Caregiving: Be attentive to their needs and respond consistently.
Positive Interactions: Spend quality time playing, reading, and talking together.
Modeling Behavior: Show them how to interact with others kindly and respectfully.
Encourage Social Play: Create opportunities for them to interact with other children.
Talk About Emotions: Help them label their feelings and understand the emotions of others.
Source: sourced from gemini AI and compiled by Edu research and insights.