Developmental Stage 1: Infancy
Social and Emotional Milestones
During infancy, children start to develop their first relationships and emotional skills. Some important milestones include:
- Developing a strong attachment to caregivers.
- Smiling and responding to familiar people.
- Showing different emotions, such as happiness, sadness, and frustration.
- Beginning to recognize familiar faces and voices.
- Using crying and other behaviors to communicate their needs.
- Becoming more comfortable with familiar adults and caregivers.
Family Strategies
Families can support infants by:
- Responding to their child's needs with lots of patience.
- Talking, reading and even singing to their child.
- Using facial expressions and gestures to communicate.
- Creating consistent routines for sleeping, eating, and playing.
- Providing a safe and loving environment.
Class Strategies
1. Responsive Caregiving
Teachers can respond quickly and calmly when infants communicate their needs. For example, teachers can comfort a crying infant, talk in a soothing soft voice, and provide physical comfort when it is appropriate. These responses help children develop trust and a sense of security.
2. Face-to-Face Interaction
Teachers can use eye contact, facial expressions, songs, and simple conversations to help infants learn about emotions and communication. For example, teachers can smile and say, "You look happy!" This will help infants begin connecting facial expressions with emotions.
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