8-20 months
Moves whole bodies to sounds they enjoy, such as music or a regular beat.
Has a strong exploratory impulse.
Concentrates intently on an object or activity of own choosing for short periods.
Pays attention to dominant stimulus – easily distracted by noises or other people talking.
16-26 months
Listens to and enjoys rhythmic patterns in rhymes and stories
Enjoys rhymes and demonstrates listening by trying to join in with actions or vocalisations.
Rigid attention – may appear not to hear.
22-36 months
Listens with interest to the noises adults make when they read stories
Recognises and responds to many familiar sounds, e.g. turning to a knock on the door, looking at or going to the door
Shows interest in play with sounds, songs and rhymes
Single channelled attention. Can shift to a different task if attention fully obtained – using child’s name helps focus
