Your baby isn't yet capable of making friends so don't worry if he isn't as sociable as you would like. Here are some suggestions to help them play happily together.

1. Get your toddler to try activities that don't require sharing, such as dancing around to music or, in the summer, running under the hose in the garden.

Did You Know?

At 4, your child's friendships are often temporary - a best friend may change from one day to the next, but by 6 or 7, friendships become more long lasting.

2. Try to make sure your toddler sees one other child regularly. One-to-one is better than seeing an array of children on an irregular basis. Unless he is very familiar with another child, it won't be until he is nearing three years old that he will begin to prefer certain playmates.

3. Don't push your child. Toddlers don't understand the concept of sharing, but in time will learn that playing together is fun.

4. Set up activities so that both children have plenty to do, and don't get bored.

5. Split toys up so that each child has his own pile to play with.