Think of a tennis match: one person serves the ball, and the person on the other side of the net hits the ball back. In nurturing children, this “hitting of the ball back and forth” is called serve and return interaction. “Serve and return” is absolutely essential to your baby’s brain development. More turn-taking = healthier brain!
- The time we spend taking turns vocalizing, signing, talking, copying one another’s facial expressions and movements, playing Peek-a-boo, singing, and reading is my favorite part of each day.
- Follow my lead! I will be more eager to pay attention to sights, sounds, and objects that fascinate me. Following my lead–and giving me language–tells me I am important to you.
- Giving me your full attention means you’ll learn about all the amazing things I can do, what I like, what I don’t like, and what I need.
- A little goes a long way! Even a few minutes a day leads to the building of a strong foundation.