Peer group acceptance

As well as the recognition of friends, children will start to want to be accepted into peer groups and will learn the need to adjust their behaviour in order to fit in. By 5 a child will understand the need for rules and fair play. Studies show that those who can enter group play easily as a preschooler are more likely to similarly succeed in later social development. The ability to play in an age appropriate way and gain acceptance into a group is crucial for later social development.

There is a relationship between this social development and moral development, as the change in prosocial behaviour during these years affects the ability to make friends and interact with peers. A 2 year old will not want to share and remains relatively selfish, however by 4 to 5 a child may demonstrate selfless behaviour, such as offering to help others even when there is no gain for themselves, express sympathy and include others in games.

It should also be noted that attachment to siblings develops from 2 years and by 4 children have developed the ability to emotionally support their younger sibling when distressed and also show protectiveness towards younger children and pets.