What do infants and toddlers need to understand about their environment?

Infants and toddlers are in a critical stage of development where they begin to explore and understand their relationship with the world around them. It is important for them to learn that they can influence the people and things surrounding them. This understanding fosters a sense of agency, which is crucial for their emotional and social development.

When children realize that their actions can elicit responses from caregivers and their environment—such as crying for attention or reaching for a toy—they start to form a foundation of communication and social interaction. This realization encourages them to express their needs and desires appropriately, which, in turn, supports their confidence and problem-solving skills as they navigate their surroundings.

As they grow, this sense of influence also contributes to their ability to cooperate with others, share, and develop relationships. Creating a nurturing environment that acknowledges their impact on their surroundings is essential in promoting healthy emotional and cognitive development.