Foundations for Parenting Infants and Toddlers

Learning Series Description

This five-part video series provides a comprehensive and clinically relevant overview of infant development and caregiving. Dr. Kasiannan draws on key developmental theories, current research, and global perspectives to explore how biological, psychological, and environmental factors shape early life. The series covers foundational topics such as the significance of infancy, major theoretical models (including attachment, temperament, and sociocultural frameworks), brain development and neuroplasticity, and the core domains of caregiving. Practical insights are provided into how parenting influences infant regulation, emotional security, and emerging competencies. The series also addresses contemporary challenges—such as screen exposure, developmental disorders, and socio-economic inequalities—and reviews international policies and parenting interventions aimed at supporting caregivers. Grounded in evidence yet accessible for both professionals and parents, the series underscores the critical role of responsive, informed caregiving during the first years of life.

Description

In this second part of the Learning Series, Dr. Kasiannan provides a comprehensive overview of foundational theories in infant and early childhood development. She begins by categorizing major developmental theories based on their view of the infant as a passive recipient, an active agent, or part of a dynamic interaction with their environment. Drawing from historical and contemporary perspectives—including behaviorist, maturational, psychoanalytic, cognitive (Piaget), and attachment (Bowlby) theories—she examines how evolving paradigms shape caregiving practices and developmental expectations. Dr. Kasiannan delves into individual differences, covering the four key attachment styles, Thomas and Chess’s temperament theory, and the importance of “goodness of fit” between child traits and parenting. She concludes with socio-cultural frameworks, including Vygotsky’s social learning theory and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems model, highlighting how multi-layered environments influence infant development across time. The series integrates clinical insight with developmental science to guide effective, responsive parenting and child-focused policy.

Learning Objectives

A. To compare and contrast key developmental theories—including behaviorist, maturational, psychoanalytic, cognitive, and attachment models—and explain how they conceptualize the infant's role in development.

B. To describe the impact of early caregiver-infant interactions, particularly through attachment styles and temperament, and evaluate how these influence socio-emotional development.

C. To learn about ecological and sociocultural frameworks, such as Bronfenbrenner’s systems theory and Vygotsky’s social learning theory, to understand how environmental and relational contexts shape early development.

Related Content Links

Brain Growth and Early Development