NCLEX Pediatric Growth and Development Practice Test

In Erikson’s theory, the stage where children begin to assert themselves, take initiative in activities, and try to lead in play while learning to cooperate with others occurs around ages 3 to 6. This is the phase of initiative versus guilt. When caregivers encourage exploring, planning, and coordinating with peers, children develop a sense of initiative and confidence in their ability to take on tasks. They also learn to regulate impulses to act in ways that are socially acceptable. If boundaries are enforced in a way that makes them feel they’ve overstepped or feel guilty for taking initiative, they may develop guilt and hesitate to try new activities. Thus teaching impulse control and cooperative behaviors best fits this stage, as it centers on growing initiative while negotiating social expectations. The other stages focus more on trust in infancy (trust vs mistrust), independent control in early toddlerhood (autonomy vs shame and doubt), or mastering skills and competence in school-age years (industry vs inferiority).