The work of the child at this stage is to:
To explore their environment
To use their senses in exploration
To get help when needed
To take the initiative
The child uses all senses to explore but tasting is the favorite. Babies of this age are very curious so they need a safe, free environment to explore. The baby starts to play Patty-cake and Peek-a-boo. Children start using words and will have about fifty by 18 months, mostly nouns. Second children learn language differently and will have inflection and rhythm of language and then plug words into sentence form. Children will walk at this age and start climbing.
The work of the caregivers:
Caregivers need to provide a safe environment for the child to explore at will. For unsafe activities, the caregiver needs to redirect and use positive words, e.g. “We pet the cat gently like this” instead of “don’t hit the cat.” Provide the child with sensory experiences such as a variety of music, water play, paint. Use proper grammar as you would if talking to an adult. “I see you are looking in the mirror” not Mommy sees Jane looking in the mirror.” Notice what activities evoke concentration in the child. Allow the child to work at things unassisted. Use descriptive phrases e.g. “You did it” “You put the blocks together.”
What caregivers need to avoid:
Doesn’t allow the child to struggle e.g. to reach a toy
Over-stimulating the child with too many sights, sounds, and toys
Punishment
Rewards
Praise
Restricts mobility
Unrealistic expectations
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