Which of the following is not an indicator that a toddler is developing self-awareness?

• A. Takes the feelings of others into account
• B. Recognizes self in a mirror
• C. Uses their own name
• D. Indicates their own preferences

Answer: (A)

Understanding self-awareness in toddlers means recognizing themselves as a distinct person. Signs include identifying themselves in a mirror, which shows they know “that is me,” and using their own name, which demonstrates they understand a label refers to them. Another sign is indicating their own preferences, showing they can express what they want as a separate individual. Taking the feelings of others into account, however, taps into empathy and understanding others’ emotions, not just recognizing oneself. That social-emotional skill reflects understanding someone else’s state of mind, which develops alongside, but separately from, self-recognition. So the statement about considering others’ feelings is not a direct indicator of self-awareness.