Chapter 2 Learning About Children 57
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different cries when they are hungry, wet, sick, cold, or scared. They also
cry when they want to be held or loved. When adults respond to a crying
baby right away, the infant learns there is someone who will care for him or
her. This helps the baby learn to trust adults.
If the needs of infants are not met during their fi rst few months, they
may quit trying to communicate their needs and become withdrawn. Their
emotional and physical health may suffer.
Babies need a lot of love to grow and develop well. Love helps them learn
to trust other people. They should be soothed when they are upset. They should
also be held and touched when they are happy. Babies like to hear a calming
voice. This is not spoiling them. This makes them feel warm and secure. See 2-6.
Babies of this age learn to do many different tasks. They like to watch
their hands and play with their fi ngers and toes. They smile. If they hear
sounds, they look up for a few seconds or move their heads to follow sound.
Babies kick their legs when lying down. If objects attract their attention, they
reach for them. Infants also learn to roll from their sides to their backs.
Reading
Review
1. What are some reasons babies cry? Give examples.
2. What happens if babies’ needs are not met during the fi rst few months?
3. What are some tasks that three-month-olds can perform?
These parents give constant love and attention to their baby, which will
help her grow and develop in a healthy way.
2-6