Fast and Slow

Your Child Will Learn

Words to describe speed

Here’s What to Do

1. Head to a playground or outdoor space where you can swing and move with your child.  You can do this activity with swings or infant scooters or even just in a wide open space.
2. Push your baby at different speeds on swings or a scooter and name each speed (like: “fast/faster/fastest” and “slow/slower/slowest”).
3. Switch to walking slow or fast, or picking up your child and spinning them around in a circle slowly and more quickly.  Remember to say the words as you change speeds.
4. Check out others around you – and describe their speed too!

Put PEER Into Action

PAUSE

• Set your child on the swing or scooter and settle them in safely. All set? Time to move!

ENGAGE

• “Mei, I’m pushing you fast! Now I’m pushing you slow. Fast! Slow! Fast! Slow!”
• “Elena, we’re walking slow, now slower, now slowest, and now we’re stopped!”

ENCOURAGE

• Follow your child’s gaze and comment, like “You’re noticing that little baby crawling. She’s moving slowly.”
• “Wow, that boy is climbing the monkey bars so fast!”

REFLECT

• Are there other places where you could point out fast and slow things to your child?

Not Quite Ready

Even if it seems like your child doesn’t understand, you’re helping them understand the concept of fast and slow.

Ready for More

Prompt your child to move fast or slow and see if they can follow the direction.

As Your Child Masters This Skill

They will have a greater understanding of words used to describe speed.

Time to Complete

10 minutes

Materials Needed

None