Building Connections Through Play

A key part of early childhood development is learning how to build relationships (Elfer et al., 2012). Babies and toddlers begin to understand social connections through their interactions with caregivers and other children (Williams et al., 2010). Educators support this by building warm, trusting relationships, encouraging shared experiences, and creating opportunities for children to communicate and play together. Here are three activities that promote social development at different stages: Sensory Social Exploration (0 to 12 months).

babies exploration

Babies explore soft fabrics, textured toys, and gentle sounds while engaging in shared attention with caregivers. These interactions help build early social bonds. "Who Is Here Today?" (12 to 24 months): Educators sing a personalized welcome song to encourage name recognition and group belonging. For example: “Who is here today? Who is here today? Everybody clap your hands, who is here today? Who’s that girl in the pink jumper with a unicorn on it?” The children respond by shouting the child’s name, helping them feel recognized and included. Cooperative Magnetic Tile Building (24 to 36 months): Older toddlers and preschoolers work together to build structures using magnetic tiles. This activity encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving as children share ideas and build collaboratively.