Around which age do children typically start showing preferences for certain playmates?

Children typically start showing preferences for certain playmates around the age of 3 to 4 years. At this stage of development, children become more socially aware and begin to engage in more complex social play. They start to form emotional connections and exhibit a desire to play with peers whom they share interests with or have had positive interactions. This is a significant time when they learn about friendship, sharing, and cooperation.

At this age, social dynamics begin to evolve as children recognize that they can form bonds with other children based on mutual enjoyment and common interests. Their ability to express preferences and make choices in interactions reflects their growing social cognition and emotional development. This transition is foundational for building social skills that will serve them well into later childhood and beyond.