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Approaches to Learning
Promoting Curiosity
WiseTip: AL-CUR-M0009-E01A

Make sure that materials in the immediate environment are safe for your baby to explore. Ensure that the item your baby is exploring does not have sharp edges and is clean. Remove any items with strings as these can be strangling hazards. Also remove items that are small enough to fit in a child's mouth as these can be chocking hazards.

0-9 months
Environment
WHY IT MATTERS

Babies are naturally curious. Hands-on play helps infants develop basic theories, also known as schemas, to explain their world.

Ensure children’s safety in their immediate environment as they explore to satisfy their curiosity. Remove obstacles that can cause young children to stumble and fall. Younger infants who mostly explore by

mouthing

Mouthing - Mouthing is an important developmental milestone for children. Mouthing behavior develops into an exploratory behavior in which objects are placed into the mouth for a few seconds for purposes of discovery. During this stage of development, children will put their hands and any object that they come in contact with into their mouths.

objects must be observed closely to avoid the risk of choking.
1, 2

  1. Honig, A.S., Miller, S.A., Church, E.B. (2006) How curiosity leads to learning. Early Childhood Today. Oct2006, Vol. 21 Issue 2, p19-23.

  2. Shabazian, A. N., & Li Soga, C. (2014). Making the right choice simple: Selecting materials for infants and toddlers. YC Young Children, 69(3), 60-65.

Read more at AL-CUR-C03.