Literature on parent-toddler affiliative behavior which reflects the dynamic and reciprocal nature of parent-toddler interaction is reviewed in this paper, including an ecosystems perspective. Affiliative behaviors for parents and toddlers are defined with respect to the verbal and physical behaviors of both parent and toddler. Also, research results assessing affiliative behaviors together with research findings on parental caregiving and parental play interactions are presented. Practical implications and applications based on the research findings for child care programming are presented. Particular focus is placed on how verbal and physical affiliative behaviors for toddlers and adults can be used to develop more securely attached relationships for children in preschool settings. In addition, the importance of male interaction in the care of infants and toddlers as well as the cooperative play style of fathers with their toddlers is emphasized. Research findings related to categories of parental affiliative interaction with categories of parental play activities are interrelated with the implications for child care programs. (Author/DST)