Inhibitory Control

One aspect of self-control is inhibitory control, or the ability to stop oneself and to wait. Toddlers love stop and go games because they allow the child to practice control over his/her physical body and to revel in his/her master of this control. Inhibitor control is important in social interactions where taking turns is involved, and as such is an important skill for success in school.

Falling Down and Getting Back Up

As young toddlers have the physical experience of falling down and then getting back up, a significant emotional event occurs as well. They are encountering and overcoming a fear of imbalance, and are developing confidence in their physical skills.

"Bodily movements often carry strong psychological meanings. With young children in particular, motion conveys emotion more powerfully than words. In the second year of life, motion is centered on the achievement of balance, and the risk of losing this balance becomes a central concern. Physical balance stands as a symbol for emotional balance, in child play as well as in adult imagery." The Emotional Life of the Toddler, by Alicia F. Lieberman