Look at moi, look at moi
Kath & Kim premiered back in 2002 but is still arguably one of Australia’s most beloved sitcoms. While the family from Fountain Lakes may poke fun at the superficial elements of our crazy world, Kath’s catch-phrase, “look at moi, look at moi” could just be wise advice for us all!
“Look at moi, look at moi”
During my working week, I have the joy of making music with many babies, toddlers and preschoolers, together with the adults who love them. We sing, dance and play together, creating joyful little communities that watch in awe as newborns in arms grow into giggling babies sitting confidently in the circle, to preschoolers dancing exuberantly around the room. Generally, we sit in a circle on the floor with everyone facing inward in wide-eyed wonder.
But at home, in the security of your home bubble, there is nothing more special than singing to your little one while gazing into each other’s eyes.
When babies are born, their vision is far from fully developed. In the initial weeks, their eyesight is blurry and they perceive the world mainly through contrasts of light and darkness. Their ability to focus is limited to objects that are about 30cm away, perfect for them to see their caregiver's face while being cradled in their arms.
As they grow and their eyesight develops, they are still mesmerised by faces - especially YOURS. So, whether you are bouncing them on your knee while you sing about a horsey ride, wiggling their toes as you recite a rhyme about piggies, or crooning a lullaby, be sure to position yourselves so that you can gaze into each other’s eyes.
In fact, research has shown that when adults and infants make eye contact, their brainwaves actually synchronise with each other, which is thought to support both communication and learning. Add to this the magic of music and you have a powerful combination that will support your child’s developing brain.
Now that’s pretty nice! Or in the words of Kath and Kim…
“It’s noice. It’s different. It’s unusual.”
