Acknowledgements - gapitc

94
Let your one year old begin to make choices about the activities he wants to do. Begin
by limiting the choices to two options—for example, in the First Choice activity
above, you would show the materials to your child and ask, “Andrew, would you like
to paint with the sponge or the brush?” Since his language is limited, he will “answer”
by taking one or the other.
One year olds look to adults for approval. Smiles and words of support help them
feel positive about their accomplishments.
Help your child develop a sense of pride by saying things like “You used your feet to
make the riding toy go, Madeline. You must feel so proud!” When children feel “proud”
of what they can do, they are more likely to keep trying new things.
Find opportunities to encourage your child’s efforts, as well as his accomplishments.
For example, “Tarek, you are trying so hard to get the circle shape in the hole. Keep
trying, you can do it!” Of course, if he keeps trying and cannot do it on his own, help
adjust the shape sorter so the piece will fit. Smile and use a pleasant tone to encourage
him.
Help your child learn how to label feelings. For example, “Cheryl, you look so happy
when you smile.” or “Jaime, you are upset because Alan took your truck.”
When your child gets frustrated with a task, break it down into smaller steps so she
can be successful one step at a time.
Encourage your child to “stretch” his abilities. When he has mastered a skill, encourage
him to try something a little more difficult.
Share your child’s successes with family members.