Begin to recognize some body parts by pointing when asked.
Recognize self in a mirror (point to self, make faces in mirror).
Express choices with gestures, signs, or words (select a toy they want).
Show confidence in their ability to make things happen by repeating or changing their actions to reach a goal (move closer to reach an object they want).
Share what they have done with others and show them things they like.
Explore their environment, occasionally “checking in” with a familiar, trusted adult.
Show preference for and emotional connection with adults who take care of them on a regular basis (feel secure to explore and then “check in” with familiar adult while playing, greet family member with big hug, seek out adult when upset or uncertain, exhibit anxiety when adult leaves).
Offer toys and objects to familiar adults.
Use sounds and gestures to engage adults (initiate simple give-and-take interactions).
Show delight when familiar peers arrive.
Enjoy playing alongside other children.
Imitate actions of older siblings and playmates.
Offer toys and objects to other children.
Use gestures, sounds, objects, or simple words to get another person to do something (bring box to adult to be opened, make noise to get someone to look).
Begin to follow simple directions (“It's time to bring me your shoes so we can go outside.”).
Control impulses some of the time (look at forbidden object and say, “no, no” or allow adult to direct them to a different activity).
Accept adult help to resolve problems and conflicts and cooperate when an adult redirects them from a situation that poses a problem.
Use body language, facial expression, simple words or signs to communicate needs and feelings (clap when happy, shout “Whee!” when excited).
Separate from parent or main caregiver without being overcome by stress.
Find comfort and calm down in a familiar setting or with a familiar person.
Try to comfort another child or adult who is upset (bring a comfort object, stroke the person on the back).
Look at familiar caregivers to see how the caregiver is feeling (look to see if the adult is upset after they spill a drink).
Match their tone and emotions to that of others during interactions.