Nurturing hearts, shaping futures

At Hearts and Minds in Education, we believe in the profound impact of early experiences on a child's journey. Explore the crucial social and emotional developmental milestones that guide children from infancy through early childhood, empowering both educators and families.

Infancy 0-12 months

  • Smiles at familiar faces
  • Responds to name
  • Expresses basic emotions
  • Builds secure attachment

Toddlerhood 1-3 Years

  • Shows the beginnings of empathy
  • Engages in parallel play
  • Asserts independence
  • Protests limits

Early Childhood 3-6 Years

  • Labels emotions
  • Takes turns
  • Begins conflict resolution
  • Empathy grows
  • Cooperative play emerges

Research shows that social-emotional development occurs in predictable stages. Understanding these milestones helps educators tailor activities and expectations to children's abilities (Honig & Wittmer, 2017). These milestones are
stepping stones for later skills such as teamı problem-solving, and emotional resilience.