A cheeky check if this is ok? Your child is social referencing!

 Did you know… when your baby, toddler or child looks at you just before they leap (or try another new trick) they are using an important developmental skill known as social referencing? 

Social referencing – looking at you to work out what’s ok 

This seemingly cheeky little look is often put down to ‘trying to get a reaction’, which is in fact absolutely what they’re up to!  

Your toddler is looking to a more experienced person to see what they think of the idea, and they will use that person’s reaction to inform their decisions: should I climb this step/touch this pan/approach this cat?   

If your reaction is fearful, your toddler will be less likely to carry on with their potentially hazardous mission!