Staring (and mouthing)

During a CdLS gathering, I noticed several children with their arms extended straight out in front of them, staring at their hands. Is there a reason for this? Also, why do children with the syndrome seem to mouth everything? Since this can be so dangerous, how can it be discouraged?

Staring at hands (or feet) is a normal developmental phase which usually occurs in infancy. This interest in “self” sometimes occurs later among children with CdLS. Exploration of the “non-self” or mouthing of objects is another normal phase of infant development which sometimes occurs late in CdLS. There is no way to prevent this, so I suggest “child proofing” the environment by removing small, sharp objects or toxic substances from reach.

LJ/ TK 7-13-10

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