EMOTIONAL DEVEOPMENT

THE FIRST YEAR

Emotional Development

The process of learning to recognize and express one’s feelings and learning to establish one’s identity and individuality.

Social Development The process of learning to interact with others

and to express oneself to others.

Emotional Development

Follows predictable patterns according to each baby’s individual timing.

Two other important influences are: 1. the type of care the baby receives

when an infants needs are met a baby learns to trust parents and caregivers and will grow into a child who can trust himself/herself and into an adult who can establish and maintain caring relationships with others.

Attachment bonding is most crucial in the first 2 months of life but fully formed until age 2.

2. the atmosphere of the home Affection and harmony between parents,

caregivers, and all family members is the bases for successful family life.

Each child needs to be loved as an individual

Failure to Thrive A condition in which a baby fails to grow and

develop properly resulting from a lack of love and attention.

This children maybe unable to develop caring, meaningful relationships with others, even with psychological help.

Temperament A person’s unique nature. It will determine how a baby reacts to others

and to the world. There are nine different temperament traits.

Everybody has each trait to a greater or lesser degree.

Intensity How strong or weak are the child’s responses to

events or people? Intense children react loudly, may cry loudly.

Persistence How determined is a child to complete an action? A persistent child will get upset if unable to finish a

project. They are goal oriented and unwilling to give up easily. Doesn’t accept no for an answer.

Less persistent children accept no for an answer.

Sensitivity How strongly does a child react to his or her

feelings? A highly sensitive child has strong reactions. Fussy eaters, complains about uncomfortable

clothing. Bothered by lights, sounds, or smells.

Perceptiveness Perceptive children are:

Aware of their environment. Easily distracted. Have a hard time following directions with different

steps. Adaptability

Children low in adaptability resist change. Highly adaptable child isn’t bothered by surprises.

Regularity Highly regular get tired an go to sleep at the same

time each evening. Go to the bathroom at the same time. Get hungry at the same time.

• Energy• High-energy children are physically active.• Squirm and move around even when sitting.• Prefer to run rather walk.

First reaction In facing new situations some children jump right

in. Open to new activities and will try new foods. Others hold back and watch what others do

before joining in. Mood

Cheerful or not. Some have a positive outlook while others point

out problems.

Problems arise when the adult’s temperament conflicts with the child’s.

Understanding such differences can prevent such clashes.

Care givers need to be able to adapt to the temperament of the child.

Crying The most obvious sign of an infant’s emotions. Attention and care is needed

1st check for any physical problems Hunger, diaper change, too hot or too cold If none of these the infant needs cuddling

Comforting techniques provided by caregiver 1. rocking 2. move baby to a new position

Comforting techniques provided by caregiver 1. rocking 2. move baby to a new position 3. talk softly to the baby, or sing 4. offer a toy to interest and distract the baby 5. Place baby facedown across your legs as you

sit in a chair.

Babies Own Comforting techniques Sucking on thumbs, fist, or pacifier Soft blanket or stuffed toy Twisting their hair Rocking themselves back and forth in their crib

Babies range of emotions is limited at birth Pleasure or satisfaction – baby is quiet Pain or discomfort – baby cries

By the 2nd month babies produce different cries for different feelings.

Colic Babies who are extremely fussy may have

colic. This baby cries a lot and can’t be comforted. Occurs usually between 6pm and midnight. Seems to be the worst around 6 weeks of age. Not sure what causes colic, maybe due to gas

collecting in their stomachs or from certain foods.