Child Development Associate (CDA) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The developmental phase in which children are notably possessive about their belongings is toddlerhood. During this stage, typically between the ages of 1 and 3 years, children begin to assert their independence and exhibit a strong sense of ownership. This behavior often manifests as possessiveness over toys and other personal items, reflecting their growing understanding of self and property.

As toddlers explore their world, they learn to differentiate between themselves and others, which leads to an attachment to their possessions. This possessiveness can sometimes result in conflicts with peers, as toddlers may struggle with sharing or relinquishing items they feel belong to them. Understanding this behavior is crucial for caregivers and educators as they guide children through learning to share and cooperate with others.

During infancy, children are primarily focused on basic attachment and exploring their immediate surroundings, lacking the social and cognitive awareness needed for possessiveness. In early childhood, while possessiveness can still be observed, it often shifts more towards social interactions and understanding of sharing. School-age children typically develop a more refined understanding of ownership and are better equipped to negotiate and think about others' perspectives.