Increasing the level of anticipation for a play activity, social routine or toy/object that is highly reinforcing increases children’s affect (facial expression and body posture) and heightens attention to the people they are interacting with. In this emotional state we can help children
to sustain attention and increase opportunities to learn. In addition, these
repetitive types of activities create stability and routine which can help children to regulate their bodies and emotions.
How to...:
Help your child learn to anticipate preferred activities/objects by letting him see it visually and then holding the object for a few seconds with an expectant, happy expression on your face. You want your child to show anticipation by moving his arms and legs, and eventually reaching towards the object (by four months of age). He may even vocalize! When you give him the object you can also name the object so your child begins to attach the label to the object (e.g., “bottle. You want your bottle?”).
When engaging in a social routine (“I’m gonna get you”) you will first get your child familiar with the routine by just doing it. When he is familiar with the expectations, you can then begin to build up to the tickle part by waiting until he demonstrates the anticipation (body movement/vocalization) before you actually tickle him. He will begin to understand how to take a turn in the interaction.
When approaching your child, you can do two different things to increase anticipation. One way is to approach him from the front. Do not talk but smile and show that you are excited to see him. As soon as he shows anticipation of your approach (wiggles, moves arms and legs, or vocalizes), begin talking to him in response. You can also reach out to pick him up and hesitate a little until he shows excitement before you pick him up. Pair this gesture and his excitement with the word “up”. After a while you will wait until he begins to look at and reach for you in return (around nine months of age). Another way you can create anticipation is to approach him from behind or from the side (out of his visual field) and begin talking to him before he sees you. This will also encourage him to search for you. Make it fun and exciting for him, again, another fun game you play together!
Suggested routines:
Feeding (bottle)
Greeting familiar others (approaching Ian)
Social games (“I’m gonna get you” tickles)
Preferred activities (baby swing/floor gym, motion or sound activated musical mobile)
Preferred objects (pacifier, favorite toy, etc.)
I hope you enjoy finding new ways to have fun with your little one. If you have any questions or want more information, click the "get in touch" button at the top of the page.
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