Skill
Shows Interest in Other Children
Infant or toddler notices, watches, and begins to connect with other children.
Ages 6–36 months
Why it matters
Noticing and reaching toward other children — touching a face, smiling, learning a friend's name — is the start of peer relationships. Early peer interest grows into the friendships and social belonging that support learning in groups.
Builds toward this milestone
- shows interest in, interacts with, and develops personal relationships with other children. — Head Start ELOF
What mastery looks like
- Watches, touches, or makes sounds directed at another child.
- Participates in simple back-and-forth interactions with a familiar peer.
How to observe it
- Does the child notice and respond to other children nearby?
- Does the child show recognition of, or preference for, particular playmates?
Accessibility
- Seat children near peers and narrate what each child is doing to draw attention.
- For children who find closeness overwhelming, start with parallel proximity, not contact.
Activities
Evidence
- Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Early Atlas