“If you give {child_name} a doll or teddy, does {he_she} cuddle it, feed it, or put it to bed?”
Follow-up: “Is nurturing play a regular thing, or more of an occasional game?”
Not yet
Treats the doll like any object — mouths, throws, or ignores it
Emerging
Occasionally hugs or pats the doll briefly
Developing
Plays regular little caring games — feeding, rocking, tucking in
Secure
Sustained caring scenarios with several actions in sequence
Caring for a doll is how little ones try on the idea of being someone who looks after others.