Initiative and guilt are the third stage of psychological development which happens between the ages of three to five in the child life. Ideally, the child starts developing a sense of autonomy and the ability to make their own decisions. It is at this stage a kid takes decision-making to the next level and starts developing a virtue of purpose. Initiative and guilt help children realize how far they go beyond their boundaries (Orenstein & Lewis, 2020). Caregivers can help foster initiative by showing support to the child. Showing support can encourage the child to take responsibility and make sure they have plenty of opportunities to interact with others. When the kids come up with funny questions like where dogs go when they die, the parent should answer them genuinely.
A child understands their value and grows when they develop a relationship with their peers. Sometimes, they feel secure and get the courage to take on personal responsibilities. During this stage of interaction with peers, the child learns to be independent. Many children at this time learn skills that help them understand themselves better (Orenstein & Lewis, 2020). For example, a child can learn how to make a toy, how to build a toy house out of bricks, and many more. When children play, they connect ideas into realities and turn these realities into deeper understanding.
If a child is not getting sufficient socialization, the parent needs to encourage them to go out and play with other children. A parent can encourage a child to play with their peer by buying toys for the child. When the child has toys, he or she might be interested in inviting his or her friends to play. The parent should consider tagging along with their child on family occasions where the child meets parents’ colleagues and plays together. Reducing house chores for the child will give them free time to hang out with their peers.
Reference
Orenstein, G. A., & Lewis, L. (2020). Eriksons stages of psychosocial development. StatPearls Publishing.