Passing toys and objects back and forth can be a fun game for your baby, and it can also help them learn.
Back and forth interactions introduce turn taking to your baby, these are the early skills needed to help them take part in conversations when they begin to talk.
Bring together some objects your baby likes. These could be toys, books or household objects. Pick one of them and pass it to your baby. See if they will take hold of it. Then, encourage your baby to pass it back to you. Repeat this a few times.
Talk about what you’re doing and repeat the words you use, for example: my turn, your turn.
When your baby has the object, to ask for it back, hold out your hand and ask: Can I have it please? ... thank you.
Swap the items you and your baby pass back and forth. Don’t forget to describe the object you’re playing with too.
You can extend the game by asking your baby to pass a specific item, for example: Can I have the red car please?
When your baby passes the object or babbles to you, praise them. It’s an important way of learning to play with others and build relationships – things they’re never too young to learn.
Good to know
This activity is a great way for your little one to learn about how conversations take place as they practise taking turns.
