Toddler peer interaction in mixed-age groups

Abstract

Toddler preference for different age playmates was investigated. Thirty toddlers, aged 16 to 23 months, were observed in family day care homes. Each subject had access to both same-age and older peers. Results indicate that toddlers preferred 2-year-olds compared to same-age peers. Toddlers watched preschoolers more often than same-age peers. Toddlers also used more imitation and language in their play with 2-year-olds compared to other age peers. Features of the caregiving environment were also assessed. Higher levels of arousal and motion were associated with more elaborate peer interaction. These findings support the notion that partner age and the caregiving environment can influence toddler social interaction.