How do children typically learn to get attention from others?

Children learn to get attention from others through a variety of strategies, which include both positive and negative behaviors. Crying is one method that infants often use to express their needs or emotions, but it is not the only way they seek attention. As they develop, children also engage in other behaviors such as smiling, cooing, or even engaging in playful actions to attract the attention of caregivers and peers.

Utilizing a combination of these behaviors allows children to experiment with different ways of communicating their needs and emotions effectively. Some children might test boundaries through negative behaviors, such as throwing a tantrum or making noise, not necessarily to be disruptive, but as part of their learning process on how to interact with others. Therefore, recognizing that children can employ a range of strategies for getting attention provides a more comprehensive understanding of their social development.