Which behaviors are indicators of social-emotional development in children?

Sharing and empathy are key indicators of social-emotional development in children because they reflect a child's ability to understand and respond to the feelings of others. When children demonstrate these behaviors, it indicates that they can form relationships and connect with their peers on an emotional level. These skills are crucial for social interactions and help children navigate their social environments, build friendships, and develop a sense of community.

Imitating peers can also play a role in social development, but it is not a direct measure of emotional understanding and connection, which is fundamental to the concept of social-emotional development. Strict adherence to rules primarily represents cognitive and self-regulatory skills rather than emotional or social competencies. Completing tasks independently indicates responsibility and self-sufficiency, but does not necessarily reflect an understanding of emotions or social dynamics.