How can you tell if a child is exhibiting healthy social interactions?

A child exhibiting healthy social interactions is often characterized by their willingness and ability to engage in play with others. Social play is a crucial component of childhood development, as it helps children build relationships, develop social skills, and learn important concepts such as sharing, cooperation, and empathy. When a child frequently participates in group activities, seeks out friendships, and enjoys collaborative play, it reflects positive social engagement and healthy emotional development.

The preference for solitary play may indicate introversion or individual interests, but it does not necessarily signify healthy social interactions. Avoiding eye contact is often associated with social anxiety or other developmental issues, which interferes with effective communication and connection with peers. Similarly, displaying aggressive behavior towards peers is a sign of social challenges and can lead to negative interactions, rather than promoting a healthy social environment. Therefore, a child who actively engages in play with others demonstrates a key aspect of developing strong social skills and building positive relationships.