During which stage of development do children typically begin to develop self-regulation skills?

Children typically begin to develop self-regulation skills during early childhood. This stage, generally defined as the ages from around 2 to 6 years, is critical for a child's emotional and social growth. During this time, children start to learn how to manage their emotions, behavior, and impulses in various contexts. They begin to understand social norms and expectations, which play a crucial role in their ability to control their reactions to different situations.

As they interact with peers and adults, children in early childhood practice skills such as waiting for their turn, following rules, and expressing their emotions in a more acceptable manner. This development is facilitated by guided interactions with caregivers and educators, who model self-regulation and provide structured environments that support these emerging skills.

In the subsequent stages like middle childhood and adolescence, self-regulation continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, but the foundational skills established during early childhood are essential for this continued growth.