Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Practice Exam 2026 - Free AEPA Practice Questions and Study Guide

Children characterized as having a slow to warm up temperament tend to initially exhibit withdrawal from social interaction when faced with new experiences or unfamiliar people. This behavior reflects a cautious approach to novelty, where these children may take their time to observe their surroundings and assess their comfort level before actively engaging or interacting with others. This temperament trait often manifests as hesitance or shyness in new social settings, as they prefer to remain in the background until they feel more secure. Over time, with gradual exposure and reassurance, these children often start to engage more freely as they adapt and become accustomed to the new situation.

In contrast, immediate friendliness and ease in adapting to new situations are typically traits associated with different temperamental styles, such as those who are more sociable or outgoing. Warmth to familiar adults only may suggest a preference for established relationships, but does not capture the essence of withdrawal in new situations that defines the slow to warm up temperament.