Directed network analysis of 2-year-old and 4-year-old children

This dataset includes triaxial acceleration data collected from 60 children (2- and 4-year-olds) across three childcare facilities during a 15-minute free play session. Dyadic (two-person) and triadic (three-person) peer relationships were analyzed using a novel-directed network analysis method, offering insights into age and sex differences in peer interactions. The dataset includes normalized connection counts, demographic details, and detailed analyses of interaction directionality. This research validates the application of network analysis in early childhood studies, reducing observational biases and labor-intensive manual coding, and provides a framework for exploring complex social dynamics in naturalistic play settings., Participants:The study involved 60 children, with equal representation of 2- and 4-year-olds, across three childcare facilities. Informed consent was obtained from the participants' legal guardians following ethical guidelines.
Data Collection:Participants wore wristwatch-style triaxial accelerometers (Silmee W22, TDK) during a 15-minute free play session. Acceleration data were recorded at 20 Hz to measure individual movement intensity and calculate dyadic and triadic peer relationships.
Data Processing:

Normalization: Acceleration data were aggregated into 1-second intervals and normalized using Sturges’ formula to account for individual variability.

Network Analysis: Connections were quantified using directed graph analysis, identifying dyads and triads based on movement entropy thresholds. Entropy values ranged from 0 to 1, representing interaction strength.

Statistical Analysis:Chi-square tests and ANOVAs were performed to analyze age, sex, and directional differences in peer r..., , # Directed network analysis of 2-year-old and 4-year-old children

[https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.63xsj3vbx](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.63xsj3vbx)

## Description of the data and file structure

**Dataset Overview:**
This dataset contains information about directed networks among 2-year-old and 4-year-old children. The data reflects interactions in terms of directed connections from one child to another, categorized by their unique identifiers and demographics.

## Files and variables

#### File: Directed\_network\_of\_2\_and\_4\_YO\_childlen.xlsx

The Excel file consists of four sheets as follows:

Sheet1: Dyad

Sheet2: Triad

Sheet3: Directed NW

Sheet4: Directed NW among individuals

### **Sheet description and variables**

#### **Sheet 1:** **Dyad**

This sheet includes each child's age, gender, and the number of Dyads for each facility. Using this data, comparisons of the number of Dyads were conducted between different ages and genders.

**Variables in each column**

* Facility...