Social Skills Development by Age
Social skills develop gradually over time. These milestones are general guidelines, and every child develops at their own pace.
Birth to 6 Months
Babies begin smiling, responding to voices, watching faces, calming with familiar caregivers, and showing interest in social interaction.
6 to 12 Months
Babies may respond to their name, imitate sounds or facial expressions, enjoy social games like peek-a-boo, and use gestures or sounds to interact.
12 to 24 Months
Toddlers often begin showing preferences for people and toys, imitating actions, using gestures, engaging in simple pretend play, and seeking attention from caregivers.
2 to 3 Years
Children may begin parallel play, imitate peers, use words to request or protest, show a wider range of emotions, and start taking simple turns with support.
3 to 4 Years
Children often engage in pretend play, begin cooperative play, ask and answer questions with peers, show empathy, and practice sharing or turn-taking.
4 to 5 Years
Children may play cooperatively, follow simple group rules, express feelings with words, solve small social problems with support, and build friendships.
