Wait for the wave
6–12 monthsSuccess MindsetNo materials needed
When saying goodbye to someone, hold your child's hand ready to wave but pause for two to three seconds before helping them wave. Use an enthusiastic voice to build anticipation, saying 'ready to wave bye-bye' before guiding their hand through the motion. This creates a brief, joyful waiting moment attached to a social routine your child will encounter frequently.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
When saying goodbye to someone, hold your child's hand ready to wave but pause for two to three seconds before helping them wave. Use an enthusiastic voice to build anticipation, saying 'ready to wave bye-bye' before guiding their hand through the motion. This creates a brief, joyful waiting moment attached to a social routine your child will encounter frequently.
Why It Works
Social routines with brief delays help infants develop anticipation skills and tolerance for waiting in a positive context. Repetition of this pattern builds neural pathways for self-regulation. Research demonstrates that early self-regulation experiences predict better academic achievement and life outcomes, with cognitive control foundations beginning in infancy (Blair, C., & Diamond, A., 2008).
Tips for Parents
Keep your voice upbeat during the pause to maintain engagement.
Physically support the waving motion at this age.
Use the same timing pattern each time you practice waving.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Repetition and RoutineResponsive Interaction
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