Babies like to be in motion

Why do babies like to be imitated?

A number of researchers from Lund University, Sweden, studied the emotional development of babies aged six months by inviting them to play. Researchers played with babies in four different ways.

The four methods are imitating every baby's movements, imitating the baby's movements with the opposite body part, imitating only body movements without facial expressions, and doing movements that are completely different from those of the baby.

During the observation, the babies sat on their mother's lap and close to a table. Meanwhile, the researchers focused on facial expressions and every gesture shown by the babies.

The researchers found that babies whose exercise were precisely mimicked stares and smiles more. Babies in this group showed expressions of liking when imitated and more often tried to get closer to the researcher during play sessions.

Apart from facial expressions, the researchers also observed the babies' behavior throughout the study. When the baby hits the table and is followed by the researcher in front of him, the baby tends to do it again while carefully observing the facial expressions of the researcher.

Even when the researchers didn't show any emotion on their faces, the babies still seemed to understand that they were being imitated. They also continued to respond by hitting the table again.

Research leader Gabriela-Alina Sauciuc thinks imitating behavior may be an effective way to attract the attention of babies and toddlers. In fact, the mothers in this study were also impressed to see their children playing with strangers.

When a person knows he is being imitated, this is usually a sign. The person being imitated realizes that his movements are similar to the person who is imitating him. In other words, there is social interaction.

Babies whose body movements were imitated in this study showed their attention through expressions of liking, eye gaze, and smiles. This is baby language to tell the adults in front of them that they understand and want to interact.

Use it in child development

Emulating behavior, whether from child to parent or vice versa, has an important role in children's social development. This behavior has even started in the first few months of life, long before the child can speak fluently.

What parents and caregivers do can have a profound effect on the developing child's mind. In order to optimize their social skills, you can play an active role in the following ways:

1. Baby

It is worth remembering that during this time, the child's behavior is a reflection of their parents. Every treatment such as playing and "chatting" will be stored strongly in their brains.

Here are some tips to invite him to study:

When "chatting" with the baby, do each movement slowly. This will make it easier for them to imitate you.
Make noises so that your little one imitates you. Also try imitating the sound that comes out of his mouth.
Sing with the baby or on a small piano.
Lightly hitting the table or clapping your hands.
Place your hands above your head and say, "Soooo big." Babies love to see this so you will likely be imitated.

2. Toddler

Toddlers love to imitate those around them and show that they can have many things. Invite or ask your little one to do something that makes them feel helpful.

Here's an example:

Model how to hold a spoon, put down shoes, or other simple tasks. Then, let him try it.
Encourage the child as you clear the table, fold clothes, and tidy up toys.
Try physical activities such as jumping, jogging, and crawling.

Since ancient times, many experts have believed that babies can learn to interact and recognize norms through imitation behavior. The expression of liking babies when imitated is one proof that this behavior plays an important role in their social abilities.

His role has been felt since the first six months of life and will determine his behavior for years to come. You can take advantage of this golden moment by staying close to your little one and being a good example.