Temperament in Infant and Toddlers

A child’s temperament describes the way in which she approaches and reacts to the world. It is her personal “style.” Temperament influences a child’s behavior and the way she interacts with others . While temperament does not clearly define or predict behavior, understanding a child’s temperament can help providers and families better understand how young children react and relate to the world around them. Information about temperament can also guide parents and caregivers to identify children’s strengths and the supports they need to succeed in their relationships and environments.