Your Child Will Learn
That pointing is a good way to communicate
Here’s What to Do
- Play a pointing game with me. Ask me where a nearby object is, then pause and see if I’ll point to it. If I don’t point, point to it yourself and show me where it is.
- Repeat with several more objects.
- Throughout the day, give me choices that encourage me to point to objects.
Put PEER Into Action
PAUSE
- Pick me up and give me a hug.
ENGAGE
- “Where’s the light?” (pause, then point to the light) “There it is!”
- “Do you want a white shirt or a blue shirt? Can you point to the one you want?”
ENCOURAGE
- Lift my arm and help me point to something I want. Say, “You want your toy, I see you pointing,” and then help me get it.
- Talk about things I’m pointing to, like: “Yes, I see the big dog over there too!”
REFLECT
- Notice the different ways I “point” to communicate. I might use my index finger, but I might use my eyes, head, or arm instead.
Not Quite Ready
Keep giving me opportunities to point, and I will begin to understand what to do.
Ready for More
Model more complex gestures or words to help me get what I want. (Like: shaking head no, asking me to say “help” when I need help, twisting palms to say “all done” in baby sign language).
As Your Child Masters This Skill
They will regularly use pointing as a way to communicate
Time to Complete
5-10 minutes
Materials Needed
None