Translation to the Clinical Setting

Mutuality

• When mutuality is observed, often in the form of “shared pleasure” or “mutual delight” (enjoyable, reciprocal interactions between the parent and child), slow the visit down and enjoy this time with the family. Our noticing and focusing on this can offer validation for families that their shared pleasure with their children is important.
• If it fits the interaction, verbally describe the moment of delight that you just saw, and if it fits, go a step further and offer that shared pleasure is very regulating for babies and important for their development.
  • “I can see how your face just lights up when your little boy is talking to you.”
  • “He is so social and interactive and such a good conversationalist already, even before he has any words! I can see your family must be doing a lot of talking back and forth with him.
  • “It is wonderful to see how much you are enjoying your son. New research is showing that this delight and kind of attention to our babies is what helps them develop best.”
  • “That’s so great how you waited for your little boy while he was “talking” to you and you responded right back which helps him feel seen and understood and like he’s an important part of this conversation.”