During “peek-a-boo,” Mia soon starts to pull the blanket away herself, eager for the next “boo!” These playful games help Mia learn to anticipate and participate in social routines.  This supports language arts development because turn-taking and anticipation are key to conversation, listening, and responding to others.

Aims:
Encourage back-and-forth communication and playful listening.

Goals:

• Support your baby’s turn-taking skills.
• Build anticipation and joy in social play.

Objectives:

• Wait for and respond to your baby’s sounds.
• Anticipate familiar social games (like “peek-a-boo”)

Activities List:

• Play “peek-a-boo” or “pat-a-cake” and pause to let your baby respond.
• Imitate your baby’s sounds, then wait for them to repeat.
• Take turns making silly faces or gentle sounds.

Materials:
Soft blanket, parent’s hands, musical toys

Differentiation:

• For babies who respond slowly, pause longer and exaggerate your expressions.
• For highly social babies, add group play (siblings, extended family).

Integration:

• Use turn-taking games during routine care (getting dressed, bath time).

Story:
During “peek-a-boo,” Mia soon starts to pull the blanket away herself, eager for the next “boo!”

Parent Simulation Tip:
Let your baby lead; when they show interest, repeat the game!

Interactive Activities:

• Individual: Back-and-forth face play
• Group: Family “pat-a-cake” circle

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