Harry loves games that involve other people, clearly enjoying the knowledge that he is being watched. He now claps in response to adult encouragement and waves to people passing by. Harry was happy waving to mummy through the sitting room window, from the safety of his playpen, watching her play with older sister Jasmine outside. However, when he suddenly realised he was alone in the room he started to sob and needed lots of comforting.
When crawling, Harry makes a beeline for open doors and does his best to escape, laughing as he goes. If he gets to the television before an adult he explores the controls with his fingers.
Harry's language is developing well. He now calls his drink 'digga' and is clear in his request for it. Harry also listens to Jasmine's stories, even when seemingly busy playing elsewhere, joining in with relevant sounds. For example, he growls with the tigers and tries to croak with the frogs in the stories. He joins in with the singing of 'Twinkle, twinkle little star' by shouting 'tinkle' in a very deep voice and making hand grasps as he shouts, mimicking Jasmine. This makes Jasmine feel special too.
Questions
1 At what age would you expect Harry to start walking unaided?
2 Harry is very curious and likes to explore. What activities would you provide for him?
4 Harry is sometimes placed in a playpen. What are the benefits and drawbacks of using playpens?
Answers to part 11 questions (17 February 2005)
1 An infant can usually release objects purposefully from their hands by about 12 months.
2 Infants will often copy a clapping action by around nine months, and will usually clap and wave bye-bye spontaneously by around 12 months.
3 Positive reinforcement is the term that can be used to describe the praise and encouragement that Harry is given by his family. It shows him that his actions are valued and enjoyed by others, and encourages him to do them again.
By Sandy Green, an early years consultant and freelance trainer. She is also Harry's grandmother.
