Social development- Newborn to Infant (birth to one year)

Important social skills are learnt in the baby's first year.
This first year is critical in terms of emotional development. Babies need to develop a strong bond - or attachment - with their carers. babies who have a strong bond or attachment with their primary caregiver at the end of their first year will be more comfortable when they socialise with others.

One month:

• Watches primary carer's face / bonds with mother.
• Smiles at mother / main carer.

Three months:

• Chooses when to smile and coo.
• Squeals with pleasure appropriately.
• Reacts with pleasure to familiar routines.
• Enjoys being handled and cuddled.

Six months:

• Laughs and enjoys being palyed with.
• Responds to different tones from main carer.

Eight months:

• Fears strangers.

Nine months:

• Plays peek-a-boo.
• Discriminates between strangers and familiar adults.
• Imitates hand clapping.
• Clings to familiar adults.

Twelve months:

• Is affectionate towards family and primary carers.
• plays simple games such as Pat-a-cake.
• Waves goodbye.
• Cooperates with dressing.