Final answer:
In the first year of an infant's life, crying evolves from a basic signaling tool to a more complex form of communication. Initially serving to express necessities like hunger, comfort, and sleep, it transforms as infants begin to babble and form words, indicating rapid cognitive and emotional development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in Infants' Crying During the First Year
During the first year of life, an infant goes through significant developmental changes which include transformations in how they cry. Initially, crying is an infant's primary means of communication, signaling various needs such as hunger, discomfort, or the need for sleep. Figure 23.5.2 highlights that even just a few days post-birth, infants effectively communicate with their caregivers through crying.
As they grow, their crying begins to change. Loud and sudden noises can startle newborns, but by 6 weeks, the development of a social smile indicates early emotional and social development. By 6 months, their communication skills are enhanced with babbling, a precursor to speech, showing an increase in the variety of sounds they make. During the second half of the year, babbling becomes more complex and speech-like.
By the end of the first year, the changes in an infant's crying are remarkable. It is not just about the need for immediate care but also a part of a growing array of communication skills that include early words and understanding. In conclusion, the crying that was once a simple call for help evolves into a sophisticated form of expression as part of the normal process of growth and learning.