Building psychological foundations during the first year
Core Idea: The most valuable gifts parents can give their infant are two fundamental psychological foundations—trust in the environment and trust in self—which develop through consistent, respectful care and opportunities for autonomous success.
Key Elements
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Two Foundational Trusts
- Trust in Environment: Belief that the world is a safe, responsive place
- Trust in Self: Confidence in one's own abilities and agency
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Development of Environmental Trust
- Consistent, responsive caregiving
- Needs met reliably and promptly
- Respectful communication and handling
- Predictable routines and environment
- Secure attachment with primary caregivers
- Clear boundaries and expectations
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Development of Self-Trust
- Opportunities for autonomous struggle and success
- Non-interference during concentration
- Appropriate challenges matched to capabilities
- Recognition of achievements without excessive praise
- Freedom to practice emerging skills
- Respect for personal rhythm and timeline
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Long-term Impact
- Foundation for optimism and psychological resilience
- Baseline for lifelong learning orientation
- Willingness to explore and take appropriate risks
- Basis for healthy relationships with others
- Core security that enables independence
- Integration of autonomy and interdependence
Connections
- Related Concepts: Respectful Baby Care (builds environmental trust), Independence in Infancy (develops self-trust)
- Broader Context: Attachment Theory (psychological framework), Montessori Philosophy (practical application)
- Applications: Supporting Struggle (practical method), Observation in Montessori Parenting (implementation tool)
- Components: Concentration Development (mechanism for self-trust), Responsive Caregiving (mechanism for environmental trust)
References
- Davies, S. The Montessori Baby
- Erikson, E. Childhood and Society
- Gerber, M. Dear Parent: Caring for Infants With Respect
#basictrust #development #montessori #psychology
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