Glossary Term

Positive care interactions

Mutually rewarding physical, emotional, and verbal exchanges between the child and his/her primary caregiver, crucial for a young child's overall development. A young child initiates interaction through babbling or talking, facial expressions, and gestures. Adults also initiate interaction and respond with similar affectionate and engaging exchanges. Such interactions will intensify as the child develops and the caregiver recognizes these developments and continues to be sensitive and responsive to the needs of the young child. This mutual exchange will facilitate the child and caregiver to bond and attach with each other. While the exact nature of Positive Care Interactions varies across different cultures, all babies need frequent, loving interactions with a stable caregiver.