WiseTip: AL-INI-M0009-I01A

Approaches to Learning

Promoting Initiative

When your baby attempts to interact with you, respond promptly and thoughtfully.

1.Hyson M. (2005) Enthusiastic and engaged: Strengthening young children's positive approaches to learning. YC Young Children.;60(6):68-70. https://search-proquestcom.proxy.lib.sg/docview/197688922?accountid=12691.

Dunst CJ, & Kassow DZ. (2008). Caregiver sensitivity, contingent social responsiveness, and secure infant attachment. Journal of Early and Intensive Behaviour Intervention. 5:40–56.

WHY IT MATTERS

Building relationships with children from infancy helps foster initiative because they feel safe to explore. Children tend to have initiative and be more engaged with activities when the emotional climate is warm and accepting.

Caregivers who respond promptly and responsively to their children tend to build secure attachments with them.

Dunst CJ, & Kassow DZ. (2008). Caregiver sensitivity, contingent social responsiveness, and secure infant attachment. Journal of Early and Intensive Behaviour Intervention. 5:40–56.

Responsive caregivers understand when children are exploring and encourage their explorations. Children with secure attachments to such responsive caregivers are found to have better initiative.

In a research study, caregivers who were attached to their children understood when children were taking initiative and were absorbed in exploring. Hence, they could better understand when the children displayed strong feelings when removed from their exploration.