FM.E.35 BANGS 2 CUBES TOGETHER

When he experiments with banging things together, your child is beginning to explore the effect that one object can have on another. This skill combines well with action imitation in language work.

How to Assess

Materials: 2 small cubes that can be easily held in the hand. Two more, for you.

Method: Give 2 cubes to your child and demonstrate with your Cubes.

Score plus if your child bangs his cubes together several times in a purposeful way.

How to Teach

You can use any objects that can be banged together. Hollow plastic blocks that make a satisfying noise when banged together are helpful.

If your child does not try to copy you, work on imitation of some easier actions, such as banging blocks or hands on the table. Refer to Book 3, Chapter 2, for suggestions on promoting imitation.

If your child tries to copy you, but cannot bring the blocks together, try using larger objects to begin with. Help your child to bring his hands together by prompting gently from just below his elbows.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

Try combining your banging with a song, such as:

My blocks are banging, banging, barging.

My blocks are banging, just like this.

Any tune will do! This is an excellent skill for a brother or sister to teach.

Remembering and Extending

When your child can bang blocks together, introduce activities such as banging a drum or xylophone. This is a good time to introduce him to your saucepan cupboard. A few pots and lids and a wooden spoon will result in lots of noisy fun!