During which Erikson stage do children typically start developing a sense of initiative?

Children typically start developing a sense of initiative during the stage of 3 to 5 years. This stage is known as the "Initiative vs. Guilt" phase in Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. During this period, preschool-aged children begin to assert their power and control over their environment through directing play and other social interactions. They explore their abilities to initiate activities and take leadership roles in play, which fosters a sense of initiative.

Successful navigation of this stage leads to a healthy sense of initiative, where children feel motivated to take on new challenges and become proactive in their learning and interactions. Conversely, if children are discouraged or criticized for their initiatives, they may develop feelings of guilt and hesitation about asserting themselves in the future. This stage sets the groundwork for a child's self-esteem and confidence in initiating tasks and engaging with their surroundings, which is crucial as they grow and face more complex social and academic settings.