In typical human development, which social-emotional skill is likely to develop last?

In typical human development, distinguishing fantasy from reality tends to develop later compared to the other social-emotional skills listed. This skill is part of cognitive development and is essential for understanding more complex narratives and social situations. Young children often engage in imaginative play, where the lines between what is real and what is imaginary can become blurred.

As they grow, children refine their ability to differentiate between these two realms, which is essential for social interactions and understanding the perspectives of others. This process usually unfolds as cognitive maturity progresses, allowing them to grasp more abstract concepts and engage in more sophisticated social reasoning.

In contrast, negotiating solutions and conflicts, objecting to major changes in routine, and showing affection to familiar playmates are skills that typically emerge earlier in development. Children start to navigate social interactions, express their feelings, and adapt to changes in their environment before they fully grasp the nuances of reality versus imagination.