Children who don't develop significant social skills by the time they are 6 years old face the risk of continuing this underdevelopment throughout adulthood, according to Education.com. They may have difficulty forming relationships, drop out of school and experience other mental disorders. Children who don't develop early social skills also may have trouble holding a job as an adult. Because of the consequences, it's imperative that parents recognize the standard developmental milestones and seek help if their children fall too far behind.
First Months
During a baby's first eight months, it's important that she develop secure feelings by being held and smiled at, according to the National Center for Infants, Toddlers and Families. Babies easily become startled or overstimulated and count on parents and caregivers to calm them down. By age 6 months, babies should be able to recognize familiar faces and may be wary of strangers. They should begin communicating through giggles, wiggles and cries to express their feelings. In the early months, babies developing socially try to imitate sounds to communicate even better.
18 Months
In the first year and half, children develop personalities and strong likes and dislikes. They communicate those preferences loudly and forcefully. They react strongly to praise and are more willing to try new experiences and learning activities when they know that praise is forthcoming. During the first 18 months, many children experience separation anxiety, because they feel so secure with their parents or primary caregivers. They become frustrated easily and often display mixed emotions of reliance and independence. They don't quite comprehend sharing yet, but they usually enjoy playing with other children. Toddlers of this age are mimics and often are seen copying the words and actions of their parents.
3 Years
Between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, children use the word "no" on a regular basis. According to the University of California, parents need to understand that the shift to self-control and self-reliance, while annoying, is a normal stage in appropriate social and emotional development. During this period of growth, children become fascinated with the things they can do themselves, from dressing and eating to taking care of others and controlling their feelings. They often fear the changes while relishing the experience. As they age, children learn about the concept of sharing and begin noticing differences in playmates, noting gender, race and speaking differences. Communication skills become more developed as toddlers put together sentences and learn to communicate by using and reading body language. They like showing off and seek attention from adults while often bossing other children around.
