ocial competence refers to 

a child's ability to get along with and relate to others. For

young children, social skills include learning to be a friend, to negotiate personal needs and
deal with difficulties, to be assertive without being aggressive and to relate effectively with
adults and peers (Linke, 2011).

Social competence is experienced by the child but often judged by others: peers, teachers,
and parents. ... Social competence enables children to interact with peers in a variety of
ways and contexts and to maintain positive relationships with peers and adults, both
of which are critical for success in school and beyond.

Social competence includes knowing what is expected for social interactions, such as

making eye contact, taking turns, listening to others, not being aggressive; understanding (or
'reading' other people's facial expressions and gestures; recognizing emotions in others and
oneself; and being able to communicate .