Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Emotional and Social Development (ESD)

Subdomain: Developing a Sense of Self

Goal: Children express positive feelings about themselves and confidence in what they can do.

Skill Progression: Expresses and seeks out positive emotions about what they can do

Age: 4-6 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 4-6 Months.

Place objects that can be activated by swiping or kicking within reach.

Place a low-hanging mobile above the child’s hands or feet. Alternatively, attach bells to a ribbon and tie the ribbon to a wrist of ankle.

The infant may smile in response to the movement or noise he creates.

Learning at this age involves discovering that actions can have a result—crying brings an adult, swiping something causes movement or noise, etc. Help early childhood educators and parents understand that responding to the child’s vocalizations or crying helps the child learn to communicate. Setting up situations for the baby to cause something to happen motivates them to move.