What’s Missing?
Your child will use memory and reasoning skills to play a “What’s Missing?” game with familiar objects.
Learning Area(s): Language and Communication
MATERIALS
- Various household objects (books, toys, bowls, serving spoons, bibs, etc.)
LET'S PLAY
Select three different objects and place them on the floor in front of the toddler. Show the objects to the toddler and name them or talk about them. For example, “This is a book about horses. This is a cup,” etc.
Now tell your child that you are going to take away one item while he closes or covers his eyes. Remove one item by hiding it behind your back and ask your child to open his eyes.
Encourage your child to guess which item is missing. If he is struggling to remember the object, give a little hint. For example, talk about what is still showing. Then give a few hints about what you have taken away.
After your child gets the hang of it, switch roles and allow him to hide an item while you guess.
TIPS
- When introducing this activity to your child, you may want to begin using only two objects. As the child becomes more familiar with the activity, increase the number of objects used to three. To add more of a challenge for older children, add additional objects.
- You might also consider choosing a set of objects that belong in the same category, such as items from the kitchen, different items of clothing, or sports-related objects.
