Can I Get It?
Here's What To Do
1
Place me on the floor in a tummy time position. Play "Can You Get It?"
- Attract my attention with a favorite toy.
- Place it by my side, about 6" away from my hip
- See if I'll pivot my body to reach the toy.
- Let me play with the toy once I reach it!
- Repeat, changing sides and increasing/decreasing the distance of the toy depending on my ability.
2
If I'm able to pivot to grab a toy, play "Can You Get It Up High?"
- When I'm on my tummy, hold out a toy high enough in front of me that I'll need to reach for it.
- Gradually increase the height of the toy to challenge my reaching skills.
- Offer toys to both my right and left sides.
- Let me play with the toy once I reach it!
3
Celebrate when I successfully reach a toy!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Get on the floor with me and give me a big smile.
E
Engage:
- "Look, here's your elephant! Here goes your elephant to the side. Can you get it?"
- "I've got your jingly rings (shake shake). I'm lifting them high. Can you get them?"
E
Encourage:
- Praise my effort and cheer me when I succeed at getting a toy. I'm working really hard!
- If I'm having a hard time pivoting, try playing this game on a smooth tile or wood floor (instead of a carpet). This will make it easier for me to pivot.
R
Reflect:
- Am I able to reach items that are placed to my side or a little off the floor?
Not quite ready?
Help me practice reaching for toys while I'm lying on my back or in a tummy time position. Place the toys so that I don't have to move my body to reach them.
Ready for more?
Help me practice sitting, using my hands on the ground for support. If I can sit while using my hands, encourage me to use one hand to reach for a toy while I'm sitting.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to pivot on their tummy to reach a toy that's to the side, and push up on one arm and grab a toy that's up high.