During peek-a-boo, Emma giggles every time her big brother pops out from behind his hands.  She learns to expect the “boo!” and tries to imitate the motion herself.  These social games help Emma connect actions, sounds, and anticipation.  This supports language arts development because combining movement, sound, and play teaches babies about patterns, turn-taking, and the rhythm of conversation.

Aims:
Encourage multi-sensory learning and simple social games.

Goals:

• Combine listening, looking, and touching in activities.
• Foster turn-taking and anticipation

Objectives:

• Anticipate simple routines (peek-a-boo)
• Respond to music with movement or babbling.

Transformation:
Your baby begins to understand patterns and routines and enjoys shared games.

Foundation:
Predictable activities help babies feel secure and eager to join in.

What Happens Next:
Ready for more complex communication, imitation, and play.

Skill Progression:

• Turn-taking
• Anticipation of familiar actions
• Movement to music

Activities List:

• Play peek-a-boo or pat-a-cake, using pauses and anticipation.
• Dance gently with your baby to music—describe the movement and encourage babbling.
• Play “Where’s the sound?” with different objects, letting your baby reach, look, and listen.

Materials:
Simple songs, soft toys, rattles

Differentiation:

• For shy babies, keep games gentle and predictable.
• For more active babies, try lively songs and clapping.

Integration:

• Use songs and games during daily routines (bath, dressing)
• Practice turn-taking with simple toys.

Parent Simulation Tip:
Try interactive games—peek-a-boo, singing, or passing a toy back and forth.

Interactive Activities:

• Individual: Peek-a-boo with caregiver
• Group: Family sing-along or clapping games

Activity Pack: Please print the accompanying activity pack for this lesson.