Here's What To Do
1
Play a game of "Can You Copy Me?"
2
Sit with me and show me a gesture that's new to me. Examples:
- drumming your fingers on the table
- shrugging your shoulders and raising your hands, like "huh?"
- put both arms in front and make an "alligator chomp" motion
3
Encourage me to copy you.
4
Repeat! Change your gesture, and see if I'll copy you. Keep playing this game for as long as I'm interested.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Find a quiet place for us to sit together.
E
Engage:
- "Watch Mommy. Can you do this? (tap on the table several times)"
- "Now I'm going to do something new. Can you copy me?"
E
Encourage:
- I might not be able to match your gestures exactly, but that's okay! This game is more about me learning how to imitate something new.
- Encourage me to copy other gestures throughout the day. For example, show me how you comb your hair, then let me try. Or, show me how to wipe the table with a sponge, then let me try.
R
Reflect:
- Am I trying to copy you? Do I think this game is fun?
Not quite ready?
Encourage me to imitate a familiar gesture, like shaking a rattle or giving a hug.
Ready for more?
See if I can copy a gesture that I can't see myself perform. For example: patting the top of my head, poking my own cheek with my finger, giving myself "moose antlers" with my hands.
As your child masters this skill...
They will attempt to copy new gestures.