Keep trying – why persistence is important for your baby's development

Most of us wonder what we need to do to help our children to develop and learn, and this is something that interests researchers too! There is lots of evidence about the importance of responsive interactions, so adults noticing and responding to children’s interests and emotions. 

You'll have probably noticed during the last few months that your baby is becoming more focused as they explore and play with toys and objects. As you watch them you might be able to see what their goal is, and that they seem more focused on achieving what they have in mind.  

Researchers suggest that persistence is linked to cognitive development; perhaps babies and toddlers who are more persistent might have more opportunities to learn from the things around them? 

How can you help? 

• Don’t help too soon! Give your baby time to keep trying but be aware of their emotions and respond if they are becoming frustrated.

• Offer reassurance. This could simply be by being close by and offering a smile or some words of encouragement. 

• Praise what your baby is doing, not just the outcome; they might not understand everything you say but they will start to understand that carrying on trying is good!  

  Reference:

  Nannerjee, P.N. & Tamis-LeMonda C.S (2007) Infants’ persistence and mothers’ teaching as predictors of toddlers’ cognitive development. Infant behaviour & Development. 30, pp.479-491.