Skill
Discovers Self and Others
Infant or toddler explores their own body and grows aware of self as separate from others.
Ages 3–30 months
Why it matters
Discovering hands, feet, and movement, then realizing that others have their own thoughts and feelings, is the beginning of self-awareness. This sense of self is the platform for identity, perspective-taking, and intentional connection.
Builds toward this milestone
- shows awareness about self and how to connect with others. — Head Start ELOF
What mastery looks like
- Explores own body and uses hands, gestures, or movement to relate to others.
- Shows awareness of own preferences and that others have separate thoughts and feelings.
How to observe it
- Does the child explore their own hands, feet, or reflection with interest?
- Does the child show awareness that other people want or feel different things?
Accessibility
- Use unbreakable mirrors and narrate body parts during care routines.
- Adapt exploration for sensory or motor differences — guide hands gently, offer varied textures.
Activities
Evidence
- Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Early Atlas