Children's treatment and environment during the first two years of their lives play a vital role in their overall social and emotional development. According to the Child Development Institute, during the first 12 months, a child learns trust and begins developing a secure or insecure personality. The seeds of trust, healthy self-esteem and optimism are sown during the first 12 to 18 months when children are nurtured appropriately.
Independence
Between the ages of one and two, children develop a separate sense of self, and begin to realize they have control over their thoughts, actions and emotions. They emerge from this stage relatively independent, often believing they are more independent than they actually are. An emotionally healthy child who has received positive parental attention and sufficient physical contact is self-assured and proud of his abilities. By the age of two, children who believe they know what is best for them frequently say the word "No."
Awareness
Children in the second year of life become more and more aware of their surroundings and of the existence of other people. They recognize themselves in the mirror, and realize they are separate from others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, toddlers at this age spend significant amounts of time imitating adults and other children. They recognize many words, including their own names. As their awareness and mobility increases, they are interested in everything within reach, and begin to attach names to objects and other people.
Attachment
Babies from strong attachments to parents and caregivers during the second year of life, and may have difficulty separating from those loved ones. According to North Dakota State University, the bonds that are formed during this time lay the basis for strong emotional development. Children develop healthy attachments in direct proportion to the amount of physical contact they have with their caregivers.
Interaction
While one-year-olds recognize that they are separate from others, they do not yet possess the ability to empathize with the needs of others. During this period of social development, babies often fight for what is theirs. They do not understand the concept of sharing or taking turns, but must be guided through the process to be able to play with other children by the time they turn two. Parents should gently and lovingly guide their young kids to interact with other children so the toddlers can learn these valuable lessons.
