12-18 Months: Child to Child -- Observation Record

How does the baby begin to play with other children?

Babies are curious about other children. They explore one another through mutual looking, touching, and laughing. They may have brief periods of shared activity with a toy, or may push and poke other children to get and keep toys. But mostly they play beside another child.

The baby might do one or more of the following:

• Begin to give–give another child a piece of his play dough after receiving much encouragement from the caregiver.
• Get mad–hit another child when she tries to take his ball.
• Get silly–make faces at a child sitting across from him at the lunch table.
• React with curiosity–reach out and tug another child's curly hair.
• Let older kids lead–play with older siblings or playmates, doing what they suggest and following their lead.

How does this baby respond to other children? (Include dates.)