Be their secure base
6–12 monthsFamily ConnectionMaterials: Age appropriate toys or safe household objects
When your child is playing or exploring, stay nearby and available. Let them move away to explore, but be ready when they look back at you or return for reassurance. Smile and encourage them, then let them go explore again. Your steady presence gives them confidence to discover their world.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
When your child is playing or exploring, stay nearby and available. Let them move away to explore, but be ready when they look back at you or return for reassurance. Smile and encourage them, then let them go explore again. Your steady presence gives them confidence to discover their world.
Why It Works
Serving as a secure base for exploration is a hallmark of secure attachment. Children who are securely attached use their parents as a safe base from which to explore, returning for comfort when needed (Ainsworth et al., 1978). This pattern of exploration and return builds confidence and trust, teaching your child that independence and connection can coexist.
Tips for Parents
You do not need to constantly interact. Just being present and available is enough.
Notice when your child checks in with you through eye contact or returning to touch you. These are signs of secure attachment forming.
Avoid being distracted by your phone during play time. Your child needs to know you are truly there.
Materials Needed
Age appropriate toys or safe household objects
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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