Development > Infant Development

Research tells us that children learn through play and through their interactions with other children and adults. Young infants learn by exploring objects through their senses — sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell.

When infants put toys in their mouths, they are exploring and learning about them. This tells us that we should have many safe rattles and teething toys for them to explore and we should keep those toys clean.

Infants will also explore books by putting them in their mouths, so early books should be made of cloth or vinyl to be easily cleaned. Infants focus on bold designs, so early books should also include a variety of patterns in bold colors.

As adults, it's important that we talk to infants and read to them often. Even though they cannot verbalize, the connections for language are being made, so when a baby cries, the parent or caregiver should try to identify emotions and respond quickly. For example, if you think a baby is hungry, you might say, "I know you are hungry. I'm getting your bottle now." A quick response builds trust in infants and allows them to be independent as they grow older. Echoing sounds back to infants is also a great way to build communication skills.

As infants begin to develop, they quickly learn "cause and effect." When they shake a rattle, it makes noise. When they cry, someone responds. Toys that lend themselves to "cause and effect" are very appropriate for infants at this stage.

As infants become mobile, it's important to provide sturdy furniture that they can use to pull up. Providing soft space and allowing the babies the independence to move around and explore will encourage physical development. To encourage infants to crawl or pull up, put toys just out of reach in a safe and soft environment.