Leadership & Social

Coos and makes vowel sounds

Babbles with varied consonant sounds (ba-ba, da-da)

Uses gestures (waving, pointing) and understands simple words

Responds to simple directions (come here, no)

Imitates simple words or sounds

Says 1-3 words with meaning (mama, dada, ball)

Makes eye contact and shows social smile

Laughs, shows excitement, recognizes familiar faces

Shows clear attachment to caregivers, plays interactive games

Occasionally looks when name is called

Consistently turns toward name when called

Responds to name even when engaged in play

Says 1-3 words with meaning (mama, dada, ball)

Vocabulary grows to 10-20 words

Uses 50+ words and begins two-word phrases

Points to objects of interest

Uses gestures to communicate (waving, clapping)

Combines gestures with words to communicate

Shows clear emotions (joy, frustration, fear)

Seeks comfort when upset

Begins to use words for feelings

Shares toys with prompting and encouragement

Shares willingly without being asked

Understands taking turns and shares equitably

Can be comforted by an adult when upset

Uses words to express emotions ("I'm sad")

Uses simple coping strategies (deep breaths)

Says hello and goodbye to familiar adults

Makes eye contact and uses names when greeting

Shakes hands and introduces self to new adults

Follows one-step instructions with guidance

Follows two-step instructions with reminders

Follows multi-step instructions independently

Waits for a short time (1-2 minutes) with support

Waits for a few minutes with minimal prompting

Waits patiently for their turn or for an activity to begin

Says polite words when prompted

Uses polite words with occasional reminders

Uses polite words consistently without prompting

Says "sorry" when prompted after hurting someone

Apologizes sincerely without prompting

Understands why actions were hurtful and makes amends

Plays alongside other children (parallel play)

Engages in simple cooperative play with one child

Plays cooperatively with multiple children

Introduces self to adults clearly, stating name

Introduces self with firm handshake and eye contact

Introduces self confidently in various settings

Introduces a friend to a family member

Introduces two people, stating both names

Makes proper introductions with context

Recites a simple prayer when prompted

Leads a familiar prayer at family meals

Composes and delivers a simple, heartfelt prayer

Stands in front of a small group and recites a poem

Gives a simple "show and tell" presentation

Asks clear, articulate questions in a group

Greets a guest at the door

Offers a guest a drink or snack

Engages a guest in conversation

Dictates thank you message for adult to write

Writes a simple thank you note with help

Writes thoughtful thank you notes independently

Participates quietly during grace

Leads simple blessing at family meals

Offers thoughtful, personalized blessings

Writes and delivers a short, persuasive speech

Speaks extemporaneously for 1-2 minutes

Uses visual aids effectively

Understands structure and purpose of a toast

Prepares and delivers a simple toast

Delivers a thoughtful, personalized toast

Introduces a family member to a group

Prepares and delivers a proper introduction

Researches and introduces speakers professionally

Leads a familiar prayer at family meals

Leads prayer at larger gatherings

Composes and delivers appropriate prayers

Teaches a younger sibling a skill

Volunteers to help younger students

Develops a simple lesson plan

Identifies source of conflict and own feelings

Brainstorms and evaluates solutions

Resolves conflicts peacefully

Speaks in front of small groups

Presents to class with preparation

Speaks confidently with eye contact and clear voice

Structures a compelling narrative, delivers 5-minute talk

Designs effective visual aids

Delivers a polished 10-15 minute talk

Records and edits a simple podcast episode

Books and interviews a guest

Markets and grows an audience

Runs for and holds a leadership position

Runs an effective meeting with an agenda

Manages a budget and a team of volunteers

Understands how to stay on message

Practices interview skills with mock interviews

Handles a real media interview

Delivers prepared remarks at formal events

Serves as master of ceremonies

Delivers keynote speeches with poise

Understands the importance of voting

Registers to vote, participates in elections

Is an informed, engaged citizen

Volunteers regularly with a local organization

Leads service projects or initiatives

Creates lasting positive impact in the community

Creates structured presentations with visuals

Delivers polished presentations to audiences

Engages audiences with compelling storytelling

Participates actively in youth group

Leads small group discussions or activities

Takes on significant leadership role in faith community

Speaks a second language conversationally

Travels internationally alone

Leads a service project in a different community

Handles a media interview

Gives a keynote address at a conference

Builds a significant personal brand

Formally mentors a younger student

Develops a coaching philosophy

Is sought out and paid for coaching services

Registers to vote, researches candidates

Volunteers for a political campaign

Leads a voter registration drive

Practices responsible land management and conservation

Participates in hunting, fishing, or farming with conservation ethics

Leads land conservation or wildlife habitat projects

Reflects on values and what matters most

Creates a plan for positive impact beyond self

Takes concrete steps toward a lasting legacy