What aspect of self-regulation typically develops first in children between ages 3 to 4?

Emotional control is a key aspect of self-regulation that typically emerges in young children, particularly between the ages of 3 to 4. At this stage, children start to better understand and manage their feelings, which is crucial for their social interactions and overall emotional development.

During this period, children begin to recognize their emotions and the emotions of others, allowing them to develop strategies to express and regulate these feelings. This foundational skill paves the way for more complex aspects of self-regulation that develop later on, such as impulse control, self-monitoring, and delay of gratification. Emotional control sets the groundwork for more nuanced self-regulatory abilities and helps children navigate social situations, making it a significant milestone in their developmental journey.