Babies, like scientists, use statistics and experiments to learn about the world.
– Alison Gopnik, The Philosophical Baby

“Your baby may not be speaking quite yet. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t a skilled communicator. And the better we read their emotional cues the better we can become at meeting their needs,” states Dan Wuori on his social media feed on X (formerly Twitter). Originally known for his educational policy analysis, Wuori has fallen into a rhythm with reposting videos of infants and toddlers, which he pairs with insights like the one above. People drawn to the videos of ‘cute babies’ are invited to consider infants’ considerable competence and creativity in the ways they interact with, explore and take in the world and people around them and build an impressive repertoire of skills.

The post mentioned above includes a short video of a very young baby sticking out their lower lip and crinkling their brow. Wuori continues:

“We don’t know exactly what the problem is. But we know he’s mildly distressed… and that’s half the battle, because at this age we can quickly narrow the list of possible causes.

Is he past due for a feeding or diaper change? Is he experiencing discomfort? Uncomfortable around an unfamiliar adult?

It’s not an infinite list.

The key is developing the skills and disposition to ‘hear’ their message.

Lacking conventional speech, infants rely heavily on non-verbal communication to express their moods, needs, and wants.

Of course emotional cues aren’t always as obvious at those shown here.

But keep a sharp eye on your baby and you might just be surprised at how effectively they communicate. Even without words.”

Reminder: International Mud Day is TOMORROW! Share your Mud Day adventures with the hashtag #wfmudday!