Holding Toys in Both Hands
Here's What To Do
1
Help me learn that I can hold objects in both hands at the same time! This skill prepares me to use both hands cooperatively when I'm older.
2
During our daily activities, try offering me a second item to hold. Examples:
- Snack time: If I'm holding a small snack in one hand, offer a second snack towards my empty hand
- Bath time: If I'm holding a bath toy in one hand, offer a washcloth towards my empty hand
- Dressing time: Give me two socks to hold, one in each hand
- Play time: When I'm holding a toy, offer a second toy towards my empty hand.
3
Show me what I can do with two objects. Model banging or shaking toys with one in each hand.
4
Celebrate when I successfully hold items in both hands!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Gently help me "high five" by guiding my hand to high five yours.
E
Engage:
- "Here are two socks! Can you hold one in this hand and one in this hand?"
- "Watch mama shake the rattles like this. Can you shake two rattles?"
E
Encourage:
- I might drop the first toy when I reach for the second. Say, "Oops! Did you still want to hold this toy? You can hold both at the same time!" and place the first toy back in my hand.
- Try tapping my empty hand with the second item to remind me that I have an available hand.
R
Reflect:
- Am I able to hold toys in both hands at the same time?
Not quite ready?
Help me learn to hold one toy. Gently wrap your hand around my hand to help me learn how to grasp a toy.
Ready for more?
Encourage me to hold a toy in each hand and then bang them together to make a sound. Blocks or rattles make extra fun sounds!
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to hold a toy in both hands at the same time.