What is a key need during the infancy stage for overall health and wellbeing?

During the infancy stage, one of the primary needs for overall health and wellbeing is safety and security. Infants are entirely dependent on their caregivers for protection and nurturing. This is a critical period where an environment that promotes physical safety—such as a safe sleeping space and being protected from harm—is essential for healthy development. Emotional security also plays a significant role; when infants feel safe and secure in their surroundings and have responsive caregivers, they are more likely to develop trust and form healthy attachments. These foundational elements of safety and security are crucial as they influence emotional development, cognitive growth, and physical health throughout a child's life.

Other aspects, such as independence, education, and employment, are not relevant at this stage of development. Infants are not capable of independence or self-sufficiency, nor can they engage in formal education or employment, highlighting why safety and security are paramount during this critical time.