Pass the toy game
6–12 monthsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Soft toys, blocks, or rattles
Sit facing your child and gently hand them a toy. Encourage them to hand it back to you, even if you need to guide their hands at first. Celebrate each exchange with a smile and simple words. This simple back-and-forth teaches turn-taking and sharing, foundational social skills.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Sit facing your child and gently hand them a toy. Encourage them to hand it back to you, even if you need to guide their hands at first. Celebrate each exchange with a smile and simple words. This simple back-and-forth teaches turn-taking and sharing, foundational social skills.
Why It Works
Turn-taking games establish the reciprocal patterns that underlie all social interaction. Learning to share attention and objects with others builds the cooperation skills that predict adult social health. Childhood behaviors emphasizing sharing and cooperation strongly predict adult social connection quality (Dunn & Cutting, 1999).
Tips for Parents
Start with toys that are easy to grasp, like soft blocks or rattles. Your child's pincer grasp is still developing.
If your child doesn't hand the toy back, gently reach for it while saying "my turn" then quickly return it saying "your turn."
Make each exchange feel rewarding with your enthusiasm. Your child is learning that interaction with others is enjoyable.
Materials Needed
Soft toys, blocks, or rattles
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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