Infant

[Dan]

Do you think this behavior or expectation is age appropriate?
Yes, It is normal for a child to start showing preference for a primary caregiver once they reach a certain age.

How could you explain this to the parents/co-workers/etc.?
I would simply tell them that developing an affinity for primary care givers at this age is normal and healthy, and that this is the way they have of showing it.

Why might the child(ren) act this way?
Because they do not want to leave the comfort of their primary care giver.

What would you suggest and is there anything you can do to prevent this situation/problem from happening again?
No, simply make sure that the children know that their parent loves them.

[Heather]

Do you think this behavior or expectation is age appropriate? (check the Guidelines if unsure)
Yes, this behavior is appropriate for older infants and not necessarily indicative of "something" happening to Jamal.

How could you explain this to the parents/co- workers/etc.?
As children develop, they form attachments to primary care givers, like parents. When that caregiver leaves, it causes emotional distress in the child. It's good that Jamal is doing this--it shows that he is in a healthy environment that allows for this kind of development.

Why might the child(ren) act this way?
Children act this way because of object permanence issues, and that they feel loved and comforted by their parents.

What would you suggest and is there anything you can do to prevent this situation/problem from happening again?
This is a phase in development--Jamal will learn that you will come back to get him, and he will feel secure in that knowledge. Just keep loving him and letting him know you love him.

[Gale Coleman]

Children thrive in a well-ordered and predictable environment, where daily routines such as arrivals and departures, mealtimes, nap times and toileting are dealt with consistently by all caregivers. Daily routines provide opportunities for children to learn more about themselves, the world and other people. Daily routines also offer children a sense of stability, and a feeling of warmth and caring from their teachers. The challenge is to develop appropriate daily routines for children which offer them a sense of consistency and security, yet remain flexible and responsive to the individual needs of each child