Hunter just loves copying whatever his big brother Cannon does. Unfortunately, Cannon gets into mischief pretty often (coloring on the sofa, jumping on his bed, climbing onto the kitchen table…Cannon is definitely in a little rebellious stage right now). So when Cannon goes down for a nap, it’s nice to have some alone time with Hunter. It’s a simple time where I’m not constantly on my guard about what trouble big brother is getting into. And the activities are always basic and pleasant-no fuss or big preparations necessary.On this day, I chose to put together a simple discovery basket of various balls.
If this activity seems a little too basic for you, keep in mind all the fabulous vocabulary you can introduce to your pre-talking baby! Since all the objects in the basket are balls, it’s an easy way to focus on other attributes and features represented in the basket. (Ball seems to be one of the earliest words kids learn, so once they understand that each object in the basket is a ball, their minds are free to differentiate each type of ball by more specific features).
Hunter had a great time exploring the texture of each ball. From the smooth plastic ones to the fuzzy cotton one. Sensory exploration is a favorite infant activity, and there’s no lack of sensory input in this activity!
He experimented with the weight of different balls as he lifted and threw them. Using general words like “heavy” and “light” may helps him understand why each ball traveled differently upon throwing it.
His visual discrimination was active as he examined the reflectivity of the balls. This is a great time to use words like “shiny” and “dull”. While he won’t be able to repeat the words to you for a while, keep in mind that receptive language comes well before expressed language!
I should emphasize that I didn’t force this activity into being a “lesson”. I really just let Hunter lead the activity and choose how he wanted to interact with the materials. But my mind tends to go a million miles a minute with ways he is learning (even in seemingly simple activities like this!)
Even with all the educational thoughts running through my mind, the biggest joy I received was through bonding with my baby. When Hunter was throwing the balls into the air, we giggled together (his laugh is contagious!) When the balls came down and bumped his head, we laughed even harder. Or when he couldn’t find the balls that landed behind him, his precious look of confusion melted my heart.
Don’t grow up too soon my little Hunter Bear, I am enjoying these moments with you <3
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