- Communicates a range of emotions (eg pleasure, interest, fear, surprise, anger and excitement) through making sounds, facial expressions, and moving their bodies.
- Expresses feelings strongly through crying in order to make sure that their needs will be met
- May whimper, scream and cry if hurt or neglected. If their needs are not responded to, they may become withdrawn and passive
- Seeks physical and emotional comfort by snuggling in to trusted adults
- Is affirmed and comforted by familiar carers through voice, physical presence and touch, for example singing, cuddles, smiles or rocking
- Reacts emotionally to other people’s emotions; smiling when smiled at and becoming distressed if they hear another child crying or see a blank unresponsive face
