Teach students about the infant stage, where the conflict is between trust and mistrust. At this stage, infants need the maximum comfort and the least uncertainty possible.
Understand the toddler stage, where the conflict is between autonomy and shame and doubt. The toddler is trying to master the physical environment, while meeting self-esteem needs.
Move to the preschooler where initiative vies with guilt. The child of this age begins to initiate action rather than imitate it. Children at this stage begin to develop sexual identity as well as a conscience.
Understand the school-age child stage, where industry conflicts with inferiority. Children try to develop their own sense of self-worth by refining skills.
Teach about the adolescent stage where identity conflicts with role confusion. Adolescents try to integrate many roles into a self-image, while under peer pressure and modeling themselves on others.
Understand the young adult stage where intimacy vies with isolation. The young adult begins to identify herself more strongly through her role towards others, as spouse, sibling, parent or friend.
Teach about the middle-aged adult stage, where generativity conflicts with stagnation. Adults at this stage often become more active in the community, for instance, giving something back through civic duties.
Teach about older adulthood where the conflict is between despair and integrity. Older adults, according to this theory, come to terms with their own mortality while reviewing their lives and increasing in wisdom.