ERIC Number: EJ738501
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2005-Sep
Pages: 3
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1070-1214
EISSN: N/A
Infants & Toddlers "What's Going On? How to Hold Squriming Babies
Honig, Alice Sterling
Early Childhood Today (1), v20 n1 p28-30 Sep 2005
Using Simple strategies, caregivers can learn to effectively communicate with infants through touch. This article offers suggestions and techniques for calming squirming babies of all types and ages who seem to be unable to find a comfortable position while being held. She begins by suggesting that care givers of very small babies be patient and remember that the baby may not be used to the feel of your particular arms, or the touch of your hands. As caregiver, and baby become more familiar with the particular way the care giver holds the baby, he or she will grow comfortable with the way your body moves while being carried from place to place. It is also possible that a baby has not had enough experience being held. Some babies are placed in cribs, car seats, high chairs, baby swings, or walkers far more than they are held. Another possibility is that a baby has some "sensory Integration difficulties." Babies with such sensitivities react with discomfort to certain sounds, scents, and touches, and babies with "sensory integration" troubles can react by squirming and protesting if their clothing doesn't "feel right." Still other babies will fuss if a touch is too light and gentle. Some feel the need for deeper firmer touches and techniques for communicating reassuring touches and interacting with fussy babies are discussed.
Descriptors: Infants, Toddlers, Child Care, Sensory Integration, Caregiver Child Relationship, Infant Care
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A