In this face-to-face activity, you will encourage your baby to imitate your actions, facial expressions, and vocal sounds.
Learning Area(s): Language and Communication; Social and Emotional
MATERIALS
- None
LET'S PLAY
Sit comfortably and hold your baby facing you (on your lap or reclining against your knees as you sit on the floor). Alternatively, you can seat your baby in an infant bouncer facing you. Aim for a distance of about eight to twelve inches from your face. Now slowly poke your tongue out and see if your baby will imitate you. Take turns doing this, and try other facial actions and expressions such as big grins, puffed up cheeks, or wide open mouths. Encourage your baby to imitate by responding warmly to him, and pause between each “turn” to give your baby time to make a response. Continue as long as your baby is attentive and seems interested.
Next, try cooing, making sounds, or speaking to the baby and allowing time for him to “respond.” Continue to include the baby in your conversation and take turns responding to each other’s coos and babbles.
TIPS
- Babies will also enjoy hearing you talk or sing to them as you do this activity.
- Older babies may be able to imitate movements with their hands as well, such as clapping or doing “pat-a-cake.”