Book sharing moments
6–12 monthsFamily ConnectionMaterials: Board book
Share a simple board book with your child by pointing to pictures and naming them in one or two words. After naming something, pause and wait to see if your child touches the picture, makes a sound, or looks at you. Respond to any reaction your child has before turning the page. Let your child set the pace and follow their interests rather than reading every word.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Share a simple board book with your child by pointing to pictures and naming them in one or two words. After naming something, pause and wait to see if your child touches the picture, makes a sound, or looks at you. Respond to any reaction your child has before turning the page. Let your child set the pace and follow their interests rather than reading every word.
Why It Works
Shared book reading with pointing and naming is specifically recommended during this critical window for language development. The quality of interaction during book sharing, including following your child's attention and responding to their communication attempts, matters more than completing the book (Hirsh-Pasek et al., 2015). This activity combines visual attention, language input, and responsive interaction, all of which support the development of effective communication skills and stronger parent-child relationships (Hartos & Power, 2000).
Tips for Parents
Choose books with clear, simple pictures of familiar objects like animals or food.
Point and pause. Say dog, then wait several seconds for your child to look, touch, or vocalize.
If your child wants to turn pages quickly or go back, follow their lead. Their choices are a form of communication.
Materials Needed
Board book
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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