Early Head Start Homework

Physical

Learning to Sit

1. Once I have great control of my head and neck, help me learn how to sit independently by supporting me through the following stages of sitting.
   
2. First, help me sit with support:
   
• Sit me on your lap and hold my hips steady. See if I can sit without leaning back on your chest.
  
• Place me inside a C-shaped nursing support pillow, or inflatable swimming tube, or propped with pillows in the corner of the couch. Stay next to me since I can topple over quickly.
  
3. Next, help me sit while I lean on my hands:
   
• Let me practice sitting on the floor, and help position my hands on the floor in front of me. Put pillows around me in case I fall over.
  
• Sit on the floor with me between your legs while we're looking at a book. Let me lean my back into you at first, then decrease your support as my balance gets better.
  
4. Finally, help me practice sitting independently:
   
• Encourage me to reach for toys with both hands while I sit.
  
• Gradually increase the length of time I practice sitting by myself.

Full Guidance

Physical

Who Said That?

1. Play a game of "Who Said That?." Start off several feet away on my right or left side (out of my view).
   
2. Approach me slowly while you talk or sing to me. When I turn my head to face your voice, congratulate me and say, "You found me!"
   
3. Repeat while you vary the direction you're coming from and the sounds you're making.
   
4. (Optional) Play this game with multiple family members. If there are any other children in our family, I might find their voice especially interesting.

Full Guidance

Language & Literacy

Did I Understand You?

1. Throughout the day, help me practice understanding verbal requests without any hints from you. I'm learning how to follow a simple request like "Drink your water" without you pointing to my cup or pretending to drink.
   
2. Try keeping your requests simple, clear and specific.
   
3. Try to give only one direction or request at a time.
   
4. Give me time to respond after you make a request. Pause for a few seconds, and see if I'll follow the request. If I seem confused, repeat your request with some gesture hints.

Full Guidance

Health & Wellness

Clean Up Helper

1. Encourage your child to help with simple tidying tasks. Examples:
   
• Putting dirty clothes in the hamper
  
• Placing toys in storage bins
  
2. Celebrate your child when they put an item in the correct place. Tell your child they're a great helper.

Full Guidance