Tip 82 – Give your child all three directions to follow and ask him or her to do them in the order given.

Of all the learning games and activities I have created, I always consider this one to be my favorite. Why? Because of all the characteristics of games that are valuable, this activity has them all–convenience, versatility, and the ability to match exactly to your child’s age, stage, and interests. You can play it anywhere, anytime, and without carrying along any needed materials.

Here are some suggested threesome directions. Please enjoy making up your own.

1. Touch the chair and then the sofa and then the door.
2. Clap your hands, touch your toes, and then walk around me.
3. Open the door, pat the table, and jump three times.

You can start with two directions and then go on to three. The directions, which are to do actions that your child enjoys, are to help your child build auditory memory skills.

Parenting Insight…

This listening game has value because your child has to hear and remember all of the directions before following any of them.

*Adapted from Make Your Own Preschool Games: A Personalized Play and Learn Program by Sally Goldberg, pp. 189-190

September! Month of the Babies

As you know, your baby is listening to everything you say… and understanding it on his or her level. Even though that year-old birthday may seem quite a while away, some time around that birthday you will start to hear first words. Mothers report all kinds of surprises at that time, but almost all recognize them from their own conversations. Enjoy these early months as you watch your baby “take it all in” and show you a growing level of auditory comprehension.

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