Social emotional development Developing a personality and becoming socially adapted are perhaps among the most baffling aspects of child development. Personal development begins with a basic sense of trust during infancy. During toddlerhood, children usually complete the stage of trust. Trust allows toddlers to explore their world independently. Toddlers begin to see themselves as individuals who are separate from their parents and able to venture freely.
Independence is a primary emotional stage during preschool years.
During this stage, toilet training and language development usually occur. Responding to acts of normal development with severe punishments or by making the child feel guilty can be harmful, particularly during this stage. At about 18 months of age children realize that they are separate from their parents, but they are not aware that who they are will remain so throughout their lives. This recognition does not occur until between ages 5 and 7. Developing a sense of self-control is also slow.