In general, a child will show certain behaviors for each trait. For example, one infant may be extremely active and have a need to move continually, while another may be happy to move slowly around the environment watching things. One toddler may try something over and over until they experience success, while another may try something once and give up if it does not work.

These 9 temperamental traits often appear grouped in 3 temperament types:

• Easy or flexible: Children with this temperament tend to be easy-going, happy, calm, and adaptable. They have regular sleeping and eating habits.
• Active or feisty: Children with this temperament may be active, fussy, and have intense positive or negative reactions. They may have irregular sleeping and eating habits.
• Slow to warm or cautious: Children with this temperament may be hesitant or fearful in unfamiliar situations, move slowly, and prefer to watch a situation for a while before joining in. They may struggle with changes, such as having a new caregiver or a shift in the daily schedule.

Some children have characteristics of more than 1 temperamental type. Understanding how an individual child expresses or experiences the 9 temperament traits will give you a deeper understanding of their unique needs and behavior than a specific style might.