Leap 8: The world of programs

Question 1

What brain changes occur?

Answer 1

• At approximately 12 months, there is a sudden change in the glucose metabolism in the brain.
• In addition, babies’ brains start responding quicker to stimulation, meaning the nervous system reacts to touch, sound, or visual cues more quickly.

Question 2

What are the signs the leap is beginning (fussy phase)?

Answer 2

• cries more often
• frequently bad-tempered or cranky
• demands more attention
• Pronounced mood swings
• want to be kept busy more often
• clings more to parent, or more often.
• acts unusually sweet
• mischievious
• throws temper tantrums, or more often
• shyer, or more shy
• jealous, or more often so
• protests more or more often when put down from being held.
• sleeps poorly
• seems to have nightmares more frequently
• loses appetite
• babbles less often
• sometimes just sit there, daydreaming
• refusal of being dressed or getting diaper changed.
• sucks thumb, or more often
• reaches for a soft toy, or more often.
• more babyish.

Question 3

What happens during this leap?

Answer 3

• In the last leap baby learned there is an order to doing things. This leap takes it a bit further, now baby understands what it means to do something like the laundry, eating lunch, getting dressed, etc. These “programs” may be accomplished with various “sequences”.
• Can “plan” for themselves to begin a certain program (like getting a broom out to sweep or a jacket out to go outside). Misunderstandings often occur which can frustrate baby.
• Can perceive what programs others are involved in.
• Can understand that they have a choice to refuse a program.

Question 4

How can we help baby during this leap?

Answer 4

• Play dressing and grooming “games”
• Let them attempt to feed themselves
• Play with toys
• Play with real things
• Pretend play
• Play with stories. Keep them relatable and short (3minute max)
• Play with “conversations”. Listen intently to them even if you don’t understand them.
• Play with music
• Happily let baby help when they show interest in doing so. They are beginning to understand what your doing and learning to do their share.
• Teach them to be considerate of you. Once baby understands that you are involved in programs too, they can begin to comprehend that you may need them to be patient while you finish what you’re doing.
• Allow your baby to find creative solutions.
• Let your baby experiment.
• Be prepared for the unexpected
• Show understand of “irrational” fears

Question 5

What is observable during the easy period?

Answer 5

• may be especially friendly and talkative.
• may be eager to help out around the house.
• most are beginning to rely less on temper tantrums.
• cheerful and independent.
• lively and mobile.