Four two-year-old children contentedly engage in parallel play at the sand table. Audrey says, “I’m making a cake.” Periodically, she pours sand into the green measuring cup, located in one corner of the sand table. A conflict develops when Pixie notices the green measuring cup and begins to use it in her play. Audrey reaches for the cup as she says, “Mine! Mine! Mine. Mine.” Pixie tucks the cup away from Audrey’s reach and says, “After I’m done, I can share.” Audrey repeatedly says, “Mine.” Although he is not directly affected by their disagreement, Christopher decides to take on the role of mediator. He calmly works to maintain the play by assessing what is fair. Christopher verifies with Audrey that she had “the green one.” He then works to facilitate the return of the cup saying, “It’s the green one.” Audrey says, “After I’m done with it.” Christopher again turns to Pixie and says, “Which one is yours? The green one?” Pixie confirms. Christopher then modifies his strategy by including Audrey’s name when he speaks. He repeatedly says, “Audrey, it’s the green one.” Audrey returns the cup to Pixie. Later, Pixie again picks up the green cup. Audrey says, “Mine,” and Pixie quickly sets the cup down. The children continue to enjoy playing side by side for several minutes.