Leap 5: The world of relationships

Question 1

What changes occur in the brain during this leap?

Answer 1

• between 22 and 26 weeks, there is an increase in activity in baby’s brain waves.

Question 2

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

Answer 2

• cry more often
• bad tempered, cranky, or whiny more often
• want parent to keep them occupied
• wants constant physical contact
• sleeps poorly
• may have nightmares
• loses appetite
• don’t want to be dressed/changed.
• shyer with strangers
• quieter, less vocal
• sucks thumb, or does so more often.
• reaches for a soft toy (comfort), or does so more often.

Question 3

What happens during this leap?

Answer 3

• Begin to understand the many kinds of relationships among the things that make up their world.
• Can now perceive the distance between one thing and another.
• begins to develop and understand spatial awareness.

Question 4

How can we help baby during this leap?

Answer 4

• allow them to crawl “on”, “in”, and “under” things.
• show them you are not deserting them.
• allow them to follow you.
• promote progress by raising expectations

Question 5

What is observable during the easy period?

Answer 5

• baby is admired for their cheerfulness, independence, and progress.