Children develop self-regulation through warm and responsive relationships. They also develop it by watching the adults around them. Self-regulation starts when children are babies. It develops most in the toddler and preschooler years, but it also keeps developing right into adulthood. Toddlers can wait short times for food and toys. But toddlers might still snatch toys from other children if it’s something they really want. And tantrums happen when toddlers are overwhelmed by strong emotions. Preschoolers are starting to know how to play with other children, understand what’s expected of them, and set and work towards simple goals. School-age children are getting better at controlling their wants and needs, focusing on what teachers are saying and following instructions, imagining other people’s perspectives and seeing both sides of a situation.