Rhythmicity in infants' experiences and their development

This article deals with the importance of rhythm in infants' experiences, underscoring its function in relation to sense of being and the continuity of that sense. Although some discontinuity is inevitable, and indeed necessary for development, it can expose infants to chaotic experiences if there is no underlying rhythmicity. Observations of infants have highlighted their ability to manage their experiences of discontinuity (providing these are not too disorganizing) by finding supports and manufacturing a rhythmicity that enables them to remain open to self and to the world. Rhythmicity of experience is important not just in infant development, but also - and more generally - in learning contexts and psychological care settings. In every situation, external rhythms must be attuned to the individual's inner one.