Early childhood
3–5 years
• Starts naming feelings out loud — "I'm mad," "I'm scared" • Shows empathy, like comforting a crying friend • Plays cooperative pretend games and is starting (starting!) to take turns • Can manage transitions/waiting with your help
• Do a daily feelings check-in. A simple feelings chart at morning circle makes naming emotions a normal everyday thing instead of only happening during a meltdown. • Coach turn-taking directly. Build the sharing/waiting language right into play — "your turn is next, I'll help you wait" — don't just assume they'll pick it up.