Emotional development, much like physical or cognitive development, follows a progression of skills throughout your child's life. From the first few months of his life all the way through childhood, he forms attachments and learns to control and display his emotions.
Babies
During the first few months of life, your baby is focused on her primary needs of eating, sleeping and getting attention. BabyCenter.com states that by the time she is about 4 months of age, she will understand that her behavior has an impact on your actions, causing her to cry solely for your attention. At around 6 to 7 months of age, she will begin to develop separation anxiety as she realizes that you may leave for an extended period of time. She can also recognize regular caregivers during her first year of life and may begin to show affection.
Toddlers
By the time your child reaches 1 to 2 years of age, he will begin to test his limits. When he is disciplined or not allowed to do something, he may react in anger or frustration. According to HealthyChildren.org, he does not have a lot of control over his emotional impulses at this age, as he is still learning about his feelings and experiencing emotional changes. He will also begin to display more independence as he tries to accomplish things by himself. He may misbehave around new caregivers whom he does not trust.
Preschoolers
Separation from you may become easier as your child reaches 3 years of age. According to HealthyChildren.org, she may assign emotions to imaginary objects and have imaginary friends, which are her ways of exploring activities, conversations and emotions. She may have trouble telling the difference between reality and fantasy until she is about 4 years old. She will likely become more talkative and show concern if someone is hurt.
Middle Childhood and Beyond
By the time your child reaches 4 to 5 years of age, PBS's website states that he might begin to compare his looks or abilities to that of other children. As he grows older, his independence will continue to increase, as will his sense of right and wrong. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that he may pay more attention to friendships and have an increased desire to be liked and accepted throughout the rest of his childhood.
Encouraging Development
Your baby needs a secure attachment to you before she can explore her world and her emotions, so be sure to respond to her needs and show her affections. As she grows older, provide her with a safe environment where she can explore her independence. Give her consistent guidelines and encourage her to play with others. Talk to her often and show her that her opinions are valuable.
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