Respond to their communication bids
1–2 yearsFamily ConnectionNo materials needed
When your child babbles, points, or brings you something, respond promptly. Make eye contact, comment on what they shared, or follow their gesture. This back-and-forth teaches them that their attempts to connect matter and that you are tuned in to them.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
When your child babbles, points, or brings you something, respond promptly. Make eye contact, comment on what they shared, or follow their gesture. This back-and-forth teaches them that their attempts to connect matter and that you are tuned in to them.
Why It Works
Attuned responses to your child's signals build secure attachment through consistent emotional availability. Mothers who show positive attitudes and attunement toward their children support secure attachment development (Verhage et al., 2021). Each response strengthens your child's trust that you are reliably there for them.
Tips for Parents
Notice and respond even to small attempts to get your attention.
Put down your phone or pause other tasks when they reach out.
Your response can be simple, just show you noticed.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentImitation and Modeling
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