By this stage children recognize themselves, realize that they are able to make things happen, and are capable of self-entertainment. They are also able to express an even wider variety of emotions, and they become more comfortable with initiating interaction with others by:

• Imitating adults while playing.
• Playing by themselves.
• Becoming more assertive and directing others while playing.
• Showing pride in their accomplishments.
• Showing their frustration when they are not able to do something.
• Recognizing their reflection in the mirror, or a picture of themselves.
• Showing deep affection for their caregiver and familiar people.
• Becoming more helpful (putting toys away, getting things for people, etc.).

Between the age of 2 and 3 years children become very confident and independent. They also become very self-involved and self-important. This is an extremely challenging time for them and their caregivers. They explore everything and become more creative in their actions. Most two year old children:

• Help dress and undress themselves.
• Feed themselves using utensils.
• Begin potty training.
• Recognize a difference between boys and girls.
• Become more assertive with adults.
• Aware of what they want and refuse what they don't want.
• Vocally express their feelings and become aware of others.
• Become more moody.
• Develop fears (rational and irrational).
• Become aware of their whole self, behavior, and appearance.
• Become possesive of their belongings.
• Become more aggressive and defensive.
• Join others in play.
• Participate in group activities.
• Begin symbolic play, such as: house, mommy & daddy, doctor, store, etc.

By the age of three, the social skills and physical developments that have taken place up to this point, become more advanced and continue to improve. Three year old children can:

• Follow easy instructions.
• Completely feed themselves.
• Simple kitchen tasks, such as: pouring, stirring, spreading, etc.
• Blow their nose.
• Wash their own hands and to a certain extent, bathe themselves.
• Begin to play made-up, more lengthy games and scenerios.
• Become more willing to share and take turns.

Children are now more confident, and recognize themselves and other children as indiviuals. Most children this age:

• Develop friendships.
• Compare themselves with others.
• Understand moral behavior by distinguishing differences (good and bad behavior, right and wrong, fair and unfair, etc.).
• Show concern for other people's feelings.
• Participate with others in more imaginative, creative, and dramatic play.