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Preschool years: Social-Emotional Development
KEY CONCEPT: Initiative vs Guilt
From ages 3–5, kids begin to plan and start activities. In preschool I used to organize clubs with the rest of the kids, and I would start to become interested in art around this time. -
Infancy: Emotional Development
KEY CONCEPT: Trust vs. Mistrust
This stage focuses on an infant's reliance on caregivers for food, comfort, and affection. Consistent care leads to trust, but neglect fosters mistrust, which heavily influences the child later on.
When I was a baby my parents say I cried a lot unless I was held. My mom made sure to always respond, feeding me or rocking me until I calmed down. That consistency helped me become a more trusting toddler later on, with a healthy attachment to my parents. -
Toddlerhood: Emotional Development
KEY CONCEPT: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
Between ages 2-3, toddlers start being more independent, like choosing clothes or feeding themselves. Support builds autonomy, which is why it is important in parenting.
I remember my parents letting me pick my outfits even when they didn't match. I felt like I could do things myself, which made me feel proud of myself as a kid. -
Middle Childhood: Cognitive/Social Development
KEY CONCEPT: Industry vs. inferiority
Ages 6–11 focus on mastering skills. Around this time I was really getting more into art and storytelling and I would begin to master skills of writing and art that would stick with me throughout my life. -
Adolescence: Identity Development
KEY CONCEPT: Identity vs. Role Confusion
Ages 12–18 are about developing a clear sense of self. Around this time I explored music and art clubs, realizing I loved creative expression. I also started dressing more how I wanted. That helped me feel confident in who I was becoming. This was around the time that I was beginning to have a rough patch, but that was likely because I was having trouble getting used to being a teenager and the chaos of my body changing.