Why Can Babies Read Faces Before They Can Talk?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why can babies read faces before they can talk?

The Big Idea

Babies can read faces before they can talk because they are born paying close attention to faces! Your face muscles show feelings that other people can read. It is a social language older than texting.

Faces First

Step one: faces first. Newborn babies love looking at faces, especially close up. A familiar face helps them feel safe and learn who takes care of them. They can even copy a smile after a few weeks.

Face Muscles

Step two: face muscles. Your face has dozens of small muscles that move your eyebrows, eyes, cheeks, and mouth. They make smiles, frowns, and surprised looks that show how you feel.

Reading Feelings

Step three: reading feelings. Babies learn that a smile usually means happy and a frown can mean worry. Understanding faces helps them communicate long before they can talk. A baby's cry, smile, and wide eyes are all messages.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! A happy face has a smile and bright eyes. A surprised face has wide eyes and a round mouth. A curious face tilts the head and raises an eyebrow. And a sad face can droop to show feelings that need care.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Faces broadcast your inner weather. Babies can recognize their caregiver's face within days, and they love it when you smile back. Smiles are understood nearly everywhere in the world. Some people read faces differently, and that is okay.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Look in a mirror and make a happy, a surprised, and a curious face. Notice which muscles move for each one. How does each face feel inside?

Outro

Faces are a feelings language that babies understand early. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!