Definition: Social development is the process through which children develop the abilities and understanding needed to interact with other people, form relationships, participate in groups, communicate socially, cooperate, and learn expectations for social situations.
Social development begins within early relationships and continues through interactions with caregivers, family members, peers, educators, and communities.
Why Social Development Matters in Childcare
Childcare environments can provide frequent opportunities for children to meet peers, participate in group routines, communicate needs, collaborate, experience disagreements, and develop relationships.
Example in a Childcare Setting
A child notices classmates beginning a pretend game, asks to participate, accepts a role, contributes an idea, and adjusts when another child suggests changing the storyline.
Related Terms
Peer interaction, cooperative play, social-emotional development, communication skills, conflict resolution, turn-taking.
« Back to Glossary Index