Developmental Stages & SEL Milestones

Here is a quick reference guide of what to expect during each developmental stage along with some milestones to be aware of!

Infancy: 

The earliest stages of life is where infants will be forming important connections and starting to express their emotions. As educators if we understand these foundations we can help create a supportive and responsive environment to help toddlers thrive.

  • Milestones:
    • Forms attachments with caregivers
    • Responds to emotions
    • Shows basic feelings like anger, joy and fear
  • Strategies:
    • Respond to their cues (serve and return interaction)
    • Talk and label emotions during routines
    • Provide comfort, help them and play with them (Malik & Marwaha, 2022).

Toddlerhood: 

As children enter toddlerhood, they will begin to seek independence and experience "big" emotions. Educators can help them by guiding them through this stage by giving them choices and helping them understand their feelings.

  • Milestones:
    • Wants independence
    • Experiences "big" emotions
    • Begins interacting with others
  • Strategies:
    • Offer simple choices (Do you want to get dressed first or brush your teeth first?)
    • Use feelings charts and calming strategies (State of Michigan, n,d.).

Early childhood: 

In early childhood, children refine their social skills, learning to play with others and use their language skills to work through social situations. Educators can help with these skills through structured activities and emotional check-ins.

  • Milestones:
    • Begins playing with others
    • Shows empathy
    • Uses language to solve problems
  • Strategies:
    • Morning check-ins (feelings sharing)
    • Role-play/Model social situations (Malik & Marwaha, 2022).