The development of social competence was studied by observing the free-play behaviour of a pair of twin boys. Videotape recordings of monthly free-play sessions in a laboratory from age 8 months to 2 1/2 years were analysed according to a combination of Mueller and Lucas's stage categories of toddler interaction and Parten's levels of social participation. Previous findings regarding these stages were replicated in play with objects, with the first example of a co-operative sequence occurring at 22 months. However, non-object-centred sequences exhibited features of co-operative behaviour as early as 10 months. These sequences showed conversation-like vocal exchanges and distracting — consoling behaviour. It is suggested that when peers are completely familiar, they may be capable of a social competence which is not based on objects and which can therefore develop before skill with objects is likely.
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