Preschoolers tend to be social beings. Whether they are playing with dolls side by side, building block castles together, or rolling down hills with friends, most young children enjoy the company of others. Playing together comes naturally, but you can help them negotiate turn taking, learning how to mend hurt feelings, and practice communicating positively while they play. Social Development for Three- and Four-Year-Olds highlights the milestones children tend to reach during the preschool years as they develop socially. You will see classroom scenarios that can provide insights into some of the ways young children make social connections, express their preferences, and play together. You will also learn strategies for supporting and nurturing their growth, especially in situations involving the following types of social skills:

• Forming friendships
• Sharing and cooperating
• Building a sense of happiness
• Dealing with teasing
• Playing in rough-and-tumble ways
• Exploring diversity
• Developing gender awareness
• Listening actively
• Building verbal communication skills
• Using the imagination during play

As a guide and facilitator, you can share strategies that will help preschoolers learn to be cooperative team members and kind friends while having fun together.

Part of the Gryphon House Growing Up in Stages series.