Who is F?
F is 2.5 years old, and from Nigeria. Her parents immigrated here after she was born. In Nigerian culture, infants and toddlers are often carried, which may explain F’s need for human connection with adults.
Communication
She stims regularly, avoids eye contact, and doesn’t use words to communicate. Lately I’ve been hearing sounds like: “ow,” “shh-shh,” and “tee-tee.” F uses the sign “more,” when she wants something.
The educators use augmentative communication like sign language and pictures, as well as small sentences to communicate with F.
I’ve noticed that she uses her resources (ie. adults in the room) to complete tasks. For example, when playing with a stacking toy, she grabbed my hand and placed a toy into it. She then guided my hand to the stack as it saying, “you do it.” She was very gentle.
Social
She doesn’t often play with other children, but is beginning to. She seems more interested in playing with adults than children. However, when the room or space is busy, I’ve noticed she gravitates to the quieter spaces. F enjoys the song Wheels on the Bus, and will do the actions when someone sings.
Emotional
F often needs co-regulation, or to be on someone’s lap in order to show a calm body. She thrives in moments spent with one adult, and seeks out these connections throughout the day. F’s sleep routine doesn’t follow a schedule, so this can be difficult at daycare.
Physical
Physically, she is developing quite typically. She enjoys bouncing, jumping, and pressure. It’s normal to see F carrying a toy around the room, and walk in circles. She eats very well, and is a “clean eater,” as Melanie says. When drinking water, I noticed she likes to swish it around in her mouth for a while before swallowing.
Interests
- bubbles
- stacking
- food
- flashlights
- quieter spaces
- adult interactions
I’ve also observed her utilizing the fish tank for what seem to be regulation. She drummed on the table, and stims with sounds while seemingly enjoying the view of the fish moving around in the water.
