FM.B.14 REACHES WITH 2 HANDS TOWARDS OBJECTS

The child who has learned to grasp and hold objects can learn to reach deliberately through a distance, controlling the direction in which his hands move. This occurs first as a two-handed reach, as described below.

How to Assess

Materials: A colourful toy or rattle.

Method: Hold the toy about 15 cm above the child, and attract his attention by shaking it. Then hold it still.

Score plus if your child moves both hands towards the toy, within 20 seconds. He need not actually grasp the toy,

How to Teach

Begin teaching this skill by holding your child in your lap and guiding his hands towards your face. Let him play with your face.

When he is well supported on his back or in his baby chair, hold an object above him and help him to move both arms up towards it. This is easier if the toy is suspended, leaving both your hands free.

Gradually reduce your help as your child begins to reach independently. But do continue to help him to actually touch or grasp the toy, once his arms are raised, so that his efforts are rewarded.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

When you give your child a bottle, hold it above him and encourage him to reach out for it before you offer him the teat.

Ensure that your child has toys within reaching distance when he is left to play on his back or in his baby chair. He may succeed in hitting hanging toys, so that they swing wildly. Watch for signs of frustration with this; it may be necessary to fix the toys to horizontal elastic, rather than letting them hang.

Remembering and Extending

This skill is directly extended in the skills that follow.