Get "In Tune"

Babies express emotions with their voices, faces, and bodies. As an educator, you understand and respond to these feelings. Have back-and-forth “talks” with a baby to help you get in tune and understand one another long before she can understand or speak any words.

Try the following ideas as you tune into and respond to babies.

When you play with a baby or tell her how special she is, use a high-pitched, engaging voice. She will know you’re talking to her and she will tune in to what you say.
When a baby is excited or intensely focused, mirror her enthusiasm with your own as you talk about what she is watching or doing. This helps her understand that she matters to you. It also keeps her engaged.
When a baby seems frustrated, uncomfortable, angry, or sad, calmly acknowledge her feelings as you put the problem into words for her. For example, It looks like you are frustrated that the block won’t fit. Let’s try another way. This will help her learn that she can trust you and herself.
When a baby discovers or accomplishes something new, show her that you share her joy and pride. This will help her develop the self-confidence to persist when tackling a challenging task.

Talk with babies as if they understand—even when you are not sure they do! Babies might not understand all the words you use, but they do understand the feeling behind your words.