I have put together a very short video to help parents and practitioners understand what Secondary Intersubjectivity is and why it is important.
In addition, if you scroll down, you will see that I have suggested some games you can play with children at home (or in preschool) that promote secondary intersubjectivity.
We all learn and digest information in different ways. If you prefer to read rather than watch a video, I’ve got you, here is the dialogue from the video:
Secondary intersubjectivity refers to a crucial stage in infant development where children begin to engage in social interactions that involve shared attention, intentionality, and understanding. Unlike primary intersubjectivity, which focuses on the infant's direct engagement with a caregiver, secondary intersubjectivity involves the child's awareness of others' perspectives and the ability to coordinate their actions and emotions with those of others. Infants become more adept at understanding and responding to social cues, such as gestures, facial expressions, and vocalisations. Through joint attention and shared experiences, infants gradually develop a deeper understanding of the social world and begin to participate in cooperative activities with caregivers and peers.
Play Alongside
I have covered a mushroom in tin foil. I then stuck tooth picks into the mushroom and threaded hoops onto the sticks.
To encourage secondary intersubjectivity, you simply need to keep your hands busy and play! Children may be interested in what you are doing with your hands and copy you!
Play alongside
I purchased some children’s knifes, we soften the veggies to prevent the risk of choking and we discourage children from putting the veggies into their mouth.
To encourage secondary intersubjectivity, you simply need to keep your hands busy and play! Children may be interested in what you are doing with your hands and copy you!
Play Alongside
I have used cooked pasta (to prevent choking), tongs, and different sized containers. Children could use the tongs to pick up the pasta and put it into a containers.
To encourage secondary intersubjectivity, you simply need to keep your hands busy and play! Children may be interested in what you are doing with your hands and copy you!
Cooking & Baking
Cook and bake with your child at home. You will be surprised how much they are capable of!
To encourage secondary intersubjectivity, you simply need to keep your hands busy and play! Children may be interested in what you are doing with your hands and copy you!