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SOCIALISATION OF CHILDREN
Social development begins at birth and continues throughout the lifespan.
Socialisation is the process of learning and becoming aware of expected
behaviours of society. Through the process, individuals become familiar with the
norms and values of the society in which they live. Childhood is the period of the
most intensive socialisation when basic skills are learnt and appropriate behaviour is
developed.
Play is an important activity that aids the socialisation of children and gives children
the opportunity to practise and role model behaviours they have observed and
explore their environment. It promotes physical, intellectual, social, cultural,
emotional and spiritual development and communication skills.
Children are socialised in a number of ways, including:
 Observing the behaviour of others
 Imitating the actions of family, teachers and peers
 Interacting with others and developing the acceptable manners, habits,
attitudes and skills of their society
 Having behaviour reinforced either positively so that they are encouraged to
repeat the behaviour, or negatively to deter inappropriate behaviour
 Identifying with those with whom they form close attachments
PRIMARY SOCIALISATION
Primary socialisation is the first socialisation process that
occurs between the child and the parents and immediate
family members.
Primary socialisation initially comes from the mother, who
offers warmth, food and attention. As babies develop, they
build relationships with others with whom they come into
contact, including the father, siblings, grandparents and
friends. The family and its members usually have the most
powerful and long-lasting influence.
SECONDARY SOCIALISATION
Secondary socialisation begins once a child moves out of infancy. Secondary socialisation
may be within a community group, such as preschool, school or sporting
group. Schools, in particular, have a great influence on secondary
socialisation because they have guidelines for acceptable behaviour,
reinforcing values and attitudes that are considered to be important to the
wider community. A primary attachment may not necessarily be formed.
Perceptions of femininity and masculinity
Gender socialisation refers to the learning of behaviours and attitudes considered
appropriate for a given sex.
Gender roles suggest:
 The colours children wear
 The toys they are given
 The activities they do
 The sports they play
 How they are treated by others
 The careers they choose
 The roles they undertake in a family
These stereotypes have been established over time and have been reinforced by
family values, culture, the media, schools, peer groups, the workplace and popular
culture.
Activities:
1) p.77 CAFS textbook – Think it through Q3 in class
2) Q1 and Q4 – Homework
3) Perceptions of Gender activities – Q1 & 3.