Baby Growth and Development
Baby
I need help to survive. If I don't have a calming adult who can connect with me and meet my needs, I will experience levels of stress which could damage my fragile, developing brain. Over time, this could affect every aspect of my health.
There are many people who can help me with this. Even if my parents aren't able to soothe me right now, if somebody else can, that will help me be healthy.
I am ready to learn because I feel safe. You help me feel safe by being interested in everything I do.
You copy my expressions, sounds and movements. You know when I need soothing or entertaining.
Adults like you respond to my babbles, gurgles and cries. You hold my gaze, talk and sing songs to me.
You know that I have to be totally dependent before I can practise being independent. My bond with you is total – it is driven by my need to survive and feel secure.
When I signal that I need someone, you are there. Feeling secure helps me to have the confidence to be independent later on.
Everything in my world is new! I am overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and sensations now I am outside the womb.
These can be fascinating or scary, and I need you to help me to tell the difference and find the right way to respond.
Attachment
Helping children to feel safe and connected to adults they trust.
Trauma
How we help children to deal with bad and scary experiences.
Resilience
Giving children the skills to be able to cope in the wider world.
