Supporting Positive Peer Interactions
A step-by-step strategy to help toddlers work through challenging social situations
Responsive, sensitive relationships between adults and children allow children to learn and develop across all areas. Serve and Return Interactions help caregivers connect by noticing and responding to a child’s needs and interests. As a result, the child feels confident to explore their world because they see their caregiver as a source of support and comfort.
Hallmarks of This Strategy
Focus on the child
Children feel connected and understood when we share their focus and respond to their needs and interests.
Follow the child's lead
When we allow children to lead, we help build their confidence and curiosity.
Practice every day
We can practice serve and return interactions anytime, anywhere.
VIDEO 1
Introduction: Supporting Positive Peer Relationships
Simple interactions between adults and young children help make strong connections in developing brains. And, it’s easy and fun to do! Developed by Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child, this video shares 5 simple steps to maximize your use of serve and return interactions.
VIDEO 2
Scenario 1: Sharing Trains
In this scenario…..
VIDEO 3
Scenario 2: Taking Turns with Playdough
Simple interactions between adults and young children help make strong connections in developing brains. And, it’s easy and fun to do! Developed by Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child, this video shares 5 simple steps to maximize your use of serve and return interactions.
VIDEO 4
Scenario 3: Trading Chairs
In this scenario…..
IMPLEMENT THIS STRATEGY
Extra Resources?
5 Steps for Brain-Building Serve and Returns
A short two-page explainer to continue learning about this strategy
5 Pasos para el Desarrollo Mental Saque y Volea
Un documento breve de 2 páginas para continuar aprendiendo sobre esta estrategia
