Tactile Development

Touch is one of the first human senses to develop and is the foundation for our awareness of our bodies and our sense of self. We use it to understand our environment, identify objects by touch, sense different temperatures, evaluate different pressures on our body, and even feel pain.

Touch plays a vital role in a wide range of social and cognitive functions, and should therefore be a central part of research into early sensory development.

Touch has a long-term impact on infant and toddler development, as well as short-term development. It has been suggested that positive, gentle contact has a significant effect on children’s health and happiness from birth. Through touch, newborns learn about their world, bond with their parents and caregivers, and communicate their needs and desires.

80% of a baby’s communication is expressed through body movements. Appropriate touch from parents and caregivers enables children to develop socially, emotionally, and intellectually.

Babies and touch

Babies are born with a very sensitive sense of touch. That’s why skin-to-skin contact is so important. Through skin-to-skin contact, babies learn about their bodies, their surroundings, and their connections with other people.

Babies take in sensory information by grasping objects and putting them in their mouths. As they grow and begin to crawl and walk, they receive more sensory information through their hands and feet.

By gradually exposing them to various tactile information through touch therapy and baby massage, you can encourage development.