Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Cognitive Development (CD)

Subdomain: Mathematical Thinking and Expression

Goal: Children compare, sort, group, organize and measure objects and create patterns in their everyday environment.

Skill Progression: Patterning

Age: 1-2 Months

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Observe the infant lying on her back, while looking at a mobile or objects held about 10 inches above the face.

Hold a picture in one hand and a black and white pattern in the other hand above the child.

Observe as the infant shifts gaze from one to another. She will gaze longer at the one with strong contrast.

Explain to new parents that the sharp contrast of the simple design is easier for the child to see. The infant sees lines and colors and does not yet assign meaning to the whole. The parents can select early toys and materials with this in mind, as these objects increase the infant’s attention and focus.