Which statement describes preschool social growth?

• A. Usually engage in solitary or parallel play but begin to play cooperatively with others.
• B. Observe others to see how they do things.
• C. Becomes aware that others have wants and feelings that may be different from their own.
• D. Capable of having and keeping friends.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is perspective-taking in social-emotional development. In preschool, children begin to understand that other people have wants and feelings that may be different from their own. This awareness lets them navigate interactions with more empathy and cooperation. For example, if a peer wants to play with a toy the child is holding, recognizing the other person’s desire and feeling leads to sharing, taking turns, or proposing a plan that includes both kids. This shift—from focusing only on one’s own wants to considering others’ wants and feelings—helps explain why preschoolers start engaging more with others and building relationships.

While kids may still play side by side or watch others to learn how to do things, and while forming and keeping friends is part of social growth, the essential milestone at this stage is realizing that others have different desires and emotions and adjusting behavior accordingly.