Early Childhood

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Pre-school years (2-5 years)

This phase brings a rapid increase in intellectual abilities, especially in the complexity of language. Social development occurs as the child learns to live within the family. He begins to identify with the parents and adopt their standards in matters of conscience. Social life develops rapidly as he learns to interact with siblings, other children, and adults. Temper tantrums continue, but diminish and should disappear before the child starts school. At this age, the child has much curiosity about the environment and may ask a great number of questions.

In children aged 2-5, fantasy life is rich and vivid. It can form a temporary substitute for the real world, enabling desires to be fulfilled regardless of reality. Special objects such as teddy bears or pieces of blanket become important to the child. They appear to comfort and reassure the child, and help sleep. They have been called 'transitional objects'.

The child begins to learn about his own identity. He realizes the differences between males and females in their appearance, clothes, behavior, and anatomy. Sexual play and exploration are common at this stage.

According to psychodynamic theory, at this stage defense mechanisms develop to enable the child to cope with anxiety arising from unacceptable emotions. They include repression, rationalization, compensation, and displacement.

Common problem in early childhood

In children from birth to the beginning of the fifth year, common problems include difficulties in feeding and sleeping, as well as clinging to the parents (separation anxiety), temper tantrums, oppositional behavior, and minor degrees of aggression.