Face to face chat time
0–6 monthsSuccess MindsetNo materials needed
Hold your child about eight to 12 inches from your face where they can see you clearly. Make eye contact and talk or coo to them in a warm, gentle voice. Wait for them to respond with sounds, facial expressions, or movements. When they do, respond back with your own sounds and expressions. This simple back and forth creates the foundation for all future conversations and social exchanges.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Hold your child about eight to 12 inches from your face where they can see you clearly. Make eye contact and talk or coo to them in a warm, gentle voice. Wait for them to respond with sounds, facial expressions, or movements. When they do, respond back with your own sounds and expressions. This simple back and forth creates the foundation for all future conversations and social exchanges.
Why It Works
This activity builds the earliest form of social reciprocity through turn-taking exchanges. Research shows that children with strong social skills in kindergarten are 54% more likely to earn a high school diploma and twice as likely to graduate from college (Jones, Greenberg, & Crowley, 2015). These early face-to-face interactions lay the groundwork for those future social competencies by establishing patterns of mutual engagement and responsive communication.
Tips for Parents
Watch for your child's cues. If they look away or seem fussy, they may need a break.
Try this during diaper changes or after feeding when your child is alert and content.
Your child can only see clearly about eight to 12 inches away at this age, so stay close.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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