Skill
Knows About Self and Family
Child shares basic facts about themselves and names the people in their family and what those people do.
Ages 24–48 months
Why it matters
Knowing one's own name and age and recognizing family members and their roles is the foundation of identity and belonging. It anchors later understanding of community, culture, and how people relate to one another.
Builds toward this milestone
- recognizes self as a unique individual having own abilities, characteristics, emotions, and interests. — Head Start ELOF
What mastery looks like
- States their own first name and, when asked, their age.
- Names several family members and tells one thing each person does.
- Recognizes that families can include many kinds of people who care for them.
How to observe it
- When looking at a family photo, does the child name the people and describe how they are connected?
- Does the child use words like "my mom," "my grandpa," or "my baby sister"?
Accessibility
- Welcome every family shape; let the child define who counts as family rather than expecting a fixed list of roles.
- Offer photos, drawings, or signs for children who communicate non-verbally.
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