What is the primary focus for adults when caring for infants?

The primary focus for adults when caring for infants is responsiveness. This means that caregivers should be attuned to the needs and cues of the infant, responding quickly and appropriately to their cries, expressions, and movements. Infants rely on their caregivers for comfort, nourishment, and security, and consistent responsive interactions help build trust and a secure attachment. This foundation is crucial for the infant's emotional and social development, as it allows them to feel safe and understood in their environment.

By being responsive, caregivers not only meet the physical needs of the child, such as feeding and diaper changes, but also nurture their emotional and psychological well-being. This interaction lays the groundwork for healthy relationships and developmental progress as the infant grows. In contrast, while structure, discipline, and independence may play more significant roles as children develop, they are not the primary focuses in the early stages of infancy, where the immediate priority is to respond to their basic needs and foster attachment.