Sliding and Rolling Toys
Here's What To Do
1
Find a toy with wheels that I can slide back and forth, like a toy car or a push toy. I might especially like toys that make sounds when they move.
2
Sit with me on the floor. Show me how to push and slide a toy back and forth, and see if I'll copy your movements.
- At this age, I'll probably make a motion that's more like "wiping" back and forth, rather than pushing a car to make it go across the floor.
3
Help me slide my toys on different surfaces to see and hear the differences. For example:
- Roll my car on the bumpy carpet
- Roll my car on the smooth tile
- Roll my car across some crinkly sounding tissue paper
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Give me a "high five" by gently guiding my hand to high five yours.
E
Engage:
- "Can you slide the train back and forth like this? Back and forth, back and forth!"
- "Let's see what happens if you slide the train on the soft carpet instead of the hard floor."
E
Encourage:
- If I'm not sure how to make the sliding motion, guide my hand back and forth with yours.
- Describe my motions, like: "You're pushing your car. Vroom vroom!"
R
Reflect:
- Am I getting the hang of rolling and sliding toys?
Not quite ready?
Encourage me to make sounds with a toy by banging it against a surface.
Ready for more?
Let me practice "wiping" with a sponge or cloth. I can "help" wipe the table or the side of the tub during bath time.
As your child masters this skill...
They will play with a toy by sliding, rolling, or wiping it, instead of banging or shaking it.