tips & tricks
Nonverbal cues include facial expressions such as smiles and grimaces , movements such as leg kicking , and gestures such as pointing , nodding , and shaking their heads . Babies also laugh , squeal , and babble to communicate with caregivers . Look for your baby ’ s responses to you when you cuddle , talk to , and smile at him . Pay attention to the first signs that she is hungry or wet or tired . Respond to those cues promptly and warmly to build trust and feelings of safety and security . By tuning in , you ’ re reflecting back to the baby that she is worthy of attention .
• Pay attention to your cues . Just as you are learning your baby ’ s cues , he is learning yours . He ’ s picking up on your tone of voice , your facial expressions , and your gestures . Do lots of singing , talking , smiling , playing , and cuddling . Be aware of your own reactions and work to be a calm and positive role model .
• Provide encouragement and support in play and exploration . When your baby starts to crawl , walk , and interact with toys , you can help build confidence by being a “ secure base ” that he can look back and return to when needed . When you are engaged and delighting in his discoveries and experiences , he will pick up on that and feel good about himself and his accomplishments . You might offer encouragement such as “ You did it ! You put the ring on the peg !” or “ Yes ! That is the color green !” when he points to the correct color in a book . These are small but mighty interactions that send the message that your child is capable and has your support .