Grasping a Toy
Here's What To Do
1
During playtime, give me small things that are easy to grasp and are safe for me to put in my mouth. Examples:
- Rattles
- Teethers
- Small dolls or stuffed animals
- A washcloth
- Your finger
2
Encourage me to practice grasping things with both my right and left hands.
3
Let me practice grasping when I'm in different positions. I can grasp while I'm lying on my side, tummy, and back, and in a supported sitting position.
4
Celebrate when I successfully grasp a toy!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Give me a big smile before we begin.
E
Engage:
- "Can you hold the rattle?"
- "Here's the bunny! Do you want to hold her?"
E
Encourage:
- To help me learn what to do, draw my attention to the toy, then tap the side of my hand with the toy. You can also gently move my fingers to help me grasp the toy.
- I may feel frustrated that I can't hold larger toys. Show me how to pat or bat these toys instead so I can make them move or make a sound.
R
Reflect:
- What kinds of toys am I able to grasp? What kinds are too difficult for me to grasp?
Not quite ready?
Place your finger into my palm and let me practice grasping your finger.
Ready for more?
Encourage me to hold objects with my thumb (in addition to my fingers). Give me larger objects like blocks or small blocks to encourage me to pick them up using my thumb.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to grasp small toys by holding them against their palm with their fingers (as if they are wearing mittens).