You're watching 18 month olds at play. What you're most likely to observe is

A. boys and girls interacting in complex roles.
B. children imitating each other without actually interacting.
C. children largely ''doing their own thing'' in their own way.
D. children interacting in simple ways, such as exchanging and naming toys.

which is the correct answer?

My experience is c.

I was thinking of D

B is the correct answer

13 to 23 months

Toddlers are a different story. They're more interested in the world but mainly in how everything in it relates to them. As your child learns to talk and communicate with others, he'll also learn to make friends. He'll enjoy the company of other children now, both his age and older. Between the ages of one and two, however, he'll be fiercely protective of his toys, which can be hard for parents who think their child should be learning to share. You may also notice him imitating his friends and spending lots of time watching what they do. He'll also want to assert his independence -- by refusing to hold your hand when you walk down a street, for example, or throwing tantrums when you tell him he can't do something he wants to do.

Does that answer your question?

To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the options:

A. Boys and girls interacting in complex roles: This option suggests that 18-month-olds would be engaging in complex interactions based on gender roles. However, at this age, children are unlikely to demonstrate such advanced social behavior. Therefore, this option is less likely to be the correct answer.

B. Children imitating each other without actually interacting: This option implies that children are imitating each other's actions without actively engaging in social interactions. While children do engage in imitation at this age, they also typically interact and communicate with their peers. Therefore, this option is less likely to be the correct answer.

C. Children largely ''doing their own thing'' in their own way: At 18 months old, children are in the early stages of social development and are more likely to engage in solitary play. They tend to explore their environments and play independently without significant interaction with their peers. Therefore, this option is a possible correct answer.

D. Children interacting in simple ways, such as exchanging and naming toys: 18-month-olds are just beginning to develop basic social skills. They may engage in simple forms of interactions such as sharing toys and naming objects. This option appears to be the most appropriate answer choice, as it aligns with the typical behaviors of children at this age.

Considering the information provided, option D ("children interacting in simple ways, such as exchanging and naming toys") is the most likely correct answer.