PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore recognition of mother-child interaction by preschoolers' mothers. METHODS: Data were collected through in-depth interviews with mothers of 12 preschoolers. The data were analyzed following Downe-Wamboldt's content analysis methodology. RESULTS: From the data, 170 significant statements were selected and were classified into 7 categories and three domains (maternal, child, dyadic). First, the maternal domain consisted of maternal sensitivity, acceptable responsiveness, and child developmental encouragement. Second, the child domain consisted of child's sensitivity, responsiveness, and initiative. Third, the dyadic domain consisted of mutuality. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that preschoolers' mothers recognize the significant qualitative aspects of interaction with their children. Based on these results, instruments for preschooler-mother interaction need to be developed.