Characteristics of Attachment

Children have different attachment needs at different ages. Choosing age-appropriate interactions is crucial to attachment. Attachment happens differently for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and special-needs children.

Attachment Behaviors of Children

Baby:

  • Gazing into your eyes.
  • Snuggling close.
  • Smiling.
  • Crying to get your attention.
  • Reaching to you.
  • Being soothed when you hold her.
  • Exploring his world.
  • Playing peek-a-boo.
  • Having needs met when she is hungry, wet or unhappy.
  • Being reassured by hearing your voice or seeing you when he awakens in the night crying.

Toddler:

  • Having opportunities to make choices.
  • Exploring her world.
  • Reaching for adults when fearful.
  • Doing things himself.

Preschool:

  • Playing with new friends.
  • Coming to parents with fears and concerns.
  • Trying new things with adults there to support.
  • Learning new things.

Special Needs:

  • Gazing into your eyes.
  • Snuggling close.
  • Smiling.
  • Crying to get your attention.
  • Reaching to you.
  • Head or hand movements in your direction.
  • Being soothed when you hold her.