DOUBLE TAP TO ZOOM ON PHONE OR TABLET Don’t become angry or aggressive toward the child or instruct other children to use physical aggression as protection. Avoid using labels, such as brat or bully. Don’t tell the victim’s family the name of the child who acted aggressively. Developmental Check Infants and Toddlers •• Infants may communicate by throwing objects or striking at people. This is typical behavior and is not aggression. •• Toddlers lack the verbal communication skills to let you know what they need or want. They may resort to aggressive acts to communicate. •• Toddlers have limited social skills. They do not understand the concept of sharing resources and space. For example, when there is only one big red truck, and it is the most desirable toy, conflict that could escalate into aggression is likely. •• Toddlers need to be physically active and mentally engaged. If their physical activity is limited for too long, or if they become bored, aggression may result. Preschoolers •• Preschoolers may have difficulty with a change in routine. Because they express their emotions strongly, the insecurity caused by a changed routine at home or school could escalate into aggression. •• Preschoolers are egocentric. They see things from their own points of view. The indi- vidual ways in which they perceive situations limit problem solving. This can cause frustration, leading to aggression. •• As preschoolers’ independence increases, it may seem reasonable to them that they should be able to get or do what they want, when they want, and how they want. When you limit their choices, the lack of control they feel may cause their frustration to esca- late into aggression. •• Aggressive acts generally decrease during preschool years. COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL 3