Pointing to Communicate
Here's What To Do
1
Play a pointing game with me. Ask me where a nearby object is, then pause and see if I'll point to it. If I don't point, point to it yourself and show me where it is.
2
Repeat with several more objects.
3
Throughout the day, give me choices that encourage me to point to objects.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Pick me up and give me a hug.
E
Engage:
- "Where's the light?" (pause, then point to the light) "There it is!"
- "Do you want a white shirt or a blue shirt? Can you point to the one you want?"
E
Encourage:
- Lift my arm and help me point to something I want. Say, "You want your toy, I see you pointing," and then help me get it.
- Talk about things I'm pointing to, like: "Yes, I see the big dog over there too!"
R
Reflect:
- Notice the different ways I "point" to communicate. I might use my index finger, but I might use my eyes, head, or arm instead.
Not quite ready?
Keep giving me opportunities to point, and I will begin to understand what to do.
Ready for more?
Model more complex gestures or words to help me get what I want. (Like: shaking head no, asking me to say "help" when I need help, twisting palms to say "all done" in baby sign language).
As your child masters this skill...
They will regularly use pointing as a way to communicate