Pass the toy together
0–6 monthsSuccess MindsetMaterials: A small, safe toy or rattle
Once your child can grasp objects, around three to four months, hold a small toy or rattle and let them grasp it. Gently take it back while saying my turn, then offer it again saying your turn. Even if your child doesn't understand the words yet, this physical exchange teaches the rhythm of sharing and taking turns, foundational skills for cooperation.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Once your child can grasp objects, around three to four months, hold a small toy or rattle and let them grasp it. Gently take it back while saying my turn, then offer it again saying your turn. Even if your child doesn't understand the words yet, this physical exchange teaches the rhythm of sharing and taking turns, foundational skills for cooperation.
Why It Works
This simple exchange introduces the concept of taking turns and sharing, core components of social cooperation. Studies show that children with better social skills in kindergarten are twice as likely to graduate from college and 46% more likely to have a full-time job by age 25 (Jones, Greenberg, & Crowley, 2015). Starting these turn-taking patterns in infancy creates neural pathways that support more complex sharing and cooperation as your child grows.
Tips for Parents
Choose toys that are easy to grasp and safe to mouth since everything goes to the mouth at this age.
Don't force it. If your child doesn't want to let go, that's okay. Just taking and offering is part of learning.
Keep it playful and brief. Two to three minutes matches their attention span.
Materials Needed
A small, safe toy or rattle
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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