Following my baby’s lead
How can you follow your baby’s lead? Watch and notice – what your baby is looking at, their facial expressions, gestures, crying patterns and sounds. This is a great way to get to know your baby and to learn how to respond appropriately. Every time you respond, it reassures them that you can be trusted to pay attention and take care of them. Don’t worry if your response isn’t always perfect. It can take some time to really understand your baby’s cues and we all get it wrong sometimes.
Following your baby’s lead means paying attention and allowing them to “steer” your interactions when possible. When introducing something new, take it slow to be sure your baby is ready. As your child grows and can use language, it becomes easier to understand them and to talk to them about what they need and want.
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- I am starting to understand my baby’s signals and needs.
- When I pay attention, I can try to meet those needs.
- When I respond in a helpful way, my baby is learning to trust me.
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- When I try a new activity with my baby, I stay very close to make sure it’s safe and that my baby is ready for it.
- I take it slow and watch to see if my baby is enjoying it.
- I try not to overdo it so it’s a fun experience for my baby.
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- Playful moments are a great time to follow my toddler’s lead.
- Play comes naturally and is important for my toddler’s brain.
- Having fun together builds our relationship.
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- During playtime, I can watch and respond to the toys and activities my child is interested in.
- My child likes me to participate and sometimes asks me to sing a song.
- As much as possible, I let my child make decisions about what to do, how to do it, and what to do next.
- This way, I am supporting my child’s independence and interests, and giving my child an opportunity to take the lead.
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