Using pattern observation, this study examined the relationship between communication in a small group of children and basic parameters of social support (quantity, content, structure, and function of the communication). Researchers observed two separate groups. Subjects were 77 children (54 girls and 23 boys), ages 5-7. Data showed that: (1) when children were engaged in activities, a child's specific position in an activity created conditions for communication skill development; (2) exchange of opinions arose spontaneously out of practical necessity during activities; (3) level of communication effectiveness influenced the emotional satisfaction of the child; (4) status level, number of children, connections between children, and the emotional expansiveness and satisfaction of children within the group all affected a child's self-perception; and (5) social support afforded children opportunities to expand the adaptive nature of their own behavior. Contains 12 references. (JW)