So that's how you say 'Get this for me!' ~The 'Crane Phenomenon' a little boy taught me~

Hello, this is Honwaka.
This time, I'd like to talk about 'how children communicate' that I felt through an interaction with a little boy.

Even without words, they have the power to communicate

Even if they haven't started speaking yet, children are trying hard to convey their 'feelings' and 'what they want.' The presence of an adult who accepts those thoughts fosters a sense of security and trust in the child.

What is the crane phenomenon?

Young children try to convey their feelings not just through words, but through actions and gestures. One such behavior is called the 'crane phenomenon'.

A little boy's action

One day at nursery school, a little boy grabbed a childcare worker's hand tightly and walked straight toward a shelf. The toy he wanted was placed there.
However, the boy didn't reach for it himself. Instead, he pulled the childcare worker's hand and moved it toward the toy.
Just like the arm of a crane truck, this behavior of using an adult's hand to achieve a goal is the 'crane phenomenon'.

Is it natural? Or a sign of development?

The crane phenomenon is a natural behavior often seen in infants around one year old. However, if it is seen frequently after the age of two, or if there is almost no verbal communication, it may be noted as a sign of developmental differences.

It's not just 'they're still small, so it's fine'

Some people might feel, 'They're still small, so it's fine even if they aren't speaking yet.' It is true that there are individual differences in a child's growth, and there is no need to rush.
But by carefully observing how they communicate and interact, you may find hints for ways to engage with and support that child.
Noticing these things early can sometimes lead to creating a more secure environment for the child.

Don't miss the 'signs' children give

Children are trying to tell us much more than adults realize. I hope we can continue to look kindly at the messages hidden not just in words, but in their actions and gestures as well.
Thank you for reading until the end.

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