Erickson's 3rd stage timeline.

Emma is an eager 3 year old who wants to dress herself every day in whatever attire she pleases. Emma does not want to hold her mother's hand ever. Emma does everything she can to be independent and in control of her every need. In Erickson's third stage Initiative vs. Guilt the conflict is between Emma and her parent's, will they let her have all this control that will give her sense of purpose or will they disapprove with all her power and Emma will feel inferior.

One year later and Emma is now 4 years old. Emma has finally learned to choose clothing that is weather appropriate and instead of wearing a swimsuit and tutu in January, Emma has dressed herself in a nice pair of leggings and a sweater. Emma's mother is pleased with Emma's choice and off to preschool they go. In Erickson's third stage Initiative vs. guilt Emma has developed a sense of initiative by dressing herself and gaining her mother's approval.

Now one more year later Emma is now 5 years old. Emma brushes her own hair and teeth and of course dresses herself every day and for every event. Emma now has a new baby sister and tries to control Lola's (new baby) every move. Emma wants to change her sister's diaper, carry her every where, feed her a bottle. This is met by Emma's mother with disapproval as Emma is still a little too young to care for a newborn baby. Emma feels disapproval in Erickson's 3rd stage Initiative vs. Guilt.