Needs of the Infant

Infants Need Food Infants, when hungry, need food quickly, and parents and/or caregivers should meet that need quickly. The immediacy with which food needs are met helps to teach the newborn trust.

Infants Need Sleep Infants are in and out of sleep most of the day. Averaging 1 ½ - 2 hour intervals, infants will sleep an average of hours per day.

Infants Need Exercise When awake, infants are active, waving their arms and legs. Such activity is important for building muscles and improving the functioning of the nervous system. Provide opportunities for babies to have movement during dressing time, bath time, and awake time.

Infants Need Sensory Stimulation Babies can learn a great deal in a stimulating environment. A stimulating toy does not have to be expensive. Pots and pans, keys, rattles, things that make noise are all appropriate. Soothing music works well. Provide color and pattern in the infant’s environment. Red is favorite color –Blue, Green, and Yellow are also good colors –Contrast of black and white is excellent Soft toys with lots of texture Pleasant, smiling human faces are a source of stimulation. Mirrors create a window to an infant’s world. Make sure the mirror is a safe one.

Infants Need Protection Infants must be watched carefully at all times. Baths, clean diapers and appropriate clothing are essential. Crib toys, furniture and surroundings should be checked often for safety. Infants need consistent medical care and immunizations.

Infants Need Love and Nurturance Hold, cuddle and pay attention to the infant. Talk to the baby using appropriate language. Take babies places other than the home. Newborns need close contact with loving, demonstrative adults

Effects of Early Nurturing Quick attention when baby feels distress will build future trust and security. Schedules and/or routines give infants a sense of expectation. Feelings of isolation and insecurity are created when the infant is left alone to cry, especially during the first year