Familiar Faces Fun
A gentle play activity that helps your child practice distinguishing familiar from unfamiliar social contexts through simple interactions with family members.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
How it works
- 1
Let's start by creating a cozy space. Sit with your child in your lap or close beside you. Show your child a photo of yourself or another very familiar family member. Point to the photo and say, 'Look, it's Mama/Dada/Grandma!' in a warm, happy voice. Watch how your child responds.
- 2
Now let's introduce a slightly less familiar person. Show a photo of a family member or friend your child sees occasionally but not daily. Say, 'Look, it's Aunt Sarah!' in a friendly but calm voice. Watch your child's reaction.
- 3
Now let's practice with a real person if possible. If another family member is available, have them approach slowly while you hold your child. If not, use a photo of someone your child doesn't know well. Watch how your child reacts to this 'stranger' context.
- 4
Let's end with a return to complete familiarity. Show your child your own face in a mirror or take a selfie together. Make happy faces and say, 'There's your child and Mama/Dada! Our special faces!' Watch for that return-to-comfort response.