0mo–11mo7 minQuiet timeFamily time
Hello, Mirror Baby!
A gentle mirror-and-talk routine where you helps your child notice their reflection, connect words to what they see (face, eyes, smile), and enjoy early back-and-forth attention in a calm, safe way.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a baby-safe mirror (acrylic/child-safe) OR a handheld mirror held by an adult at all times
- a safe place for your child to lie/sit with supervision (mat, bed with adult present, or lap)
Nice to have
- a soft cloth for a simple peekaboo cover
- good natural light (if available)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneMirror interestHeart· 4mo–8mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· core· Step 1
- MilestoneImitates facial movementsMind· 4mo–8mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneVocalizes back during interactionHeart· 2mo–8mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneCopies simple gestures or actionsMind· 6mo–2.3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneReacts to disappearanceMind· 0mo–11mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneBids to keep adult attentionHeart· 3mo–5mo· stretch
- MilestonePoints and gazes to share attentionHeart· 8mo–2y· core
What it practices
- Laughs and gurgles, e.g. shows pleasure at being tickled and other physical interactions.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Responds to and thrives on warm, sensitive physical contactObservable behaviour from Development Matters
- Expresses discomfort, hunger or thirst.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Place mirrors where babies can see their own reflection. Talk with them about what they see.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)