Skill· 10mo–18mo· 2 min

The Cuddle and Share Game

Parent and child engage in a warm, physical play session involving hugging, gentle roughhousing, and sharing objects. The guide helps the parent observe how the child shows affection -- through touch, offerings, proximity seeking, and emotional expression -- capturing social-emotional development alongside language and motor skills.

Start voice activity

Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.

What you'll need

Cozy spot on couch or floor with pillows. Have a stuffed animal, blanket, and optional small snack. Relaxed, warm atmosphere.

How it works

  1. 1~15s

    Start by just pulling your child close for a snuggle. Hold them gently, stroke their hair or back, and say something sweet -- 'your child, I love you so much.' Then wait and see what they does. Does they lean in? Hug back? Pat you? Snuggle closer? Or squirm to get down and play?

    Watch for: responds_to_affection_from_parent

  2. 2~20s

    Now hand your child the stuffed animal and watch what they does with it. Some kids will hug it, pat it, try to feed it, or tuck it in. Others will throw it across the room! There's no wrong answer -- I just want to see if your child shows any nurturing or affectionate behavior toward the toy.

    Watch for: shows_affection_toward_stuffed_animal

  3. 3~20s

    If you have a small snack handy, try this: take a piece and eat it, then offer one to your child. After they takes it, put your hand out and say 'can I have one?' See if your child offers you a piece. You can also try offering one to the stuffed animal. What happens?

    Watch for: shares_food_or_objects_with_parent

  4. 4~20s

    Try something quick. Stand up and walk to the doorway of the room -- don't leave, just step away for a moment. Then turn around, smile big, open your arms, and come back. I want to see two things: how your child reacts when you step away, and how they reacts when you come back. What happens?

    Watch for: shows_affection_on_parent_return

  5. 5

    One more little test. While you're playing together, pretend to bump your head or stub your toe -- say 'ow!' and make a mild pain face. Don't overdo it, just enough to see if your child notices. Does they react? Come to you? Look concerned? Offer the stuffed animal? Pat your head?

    Watch for: shows_concern_when_parent_expresses_pain

What this develops

Visual example

Coming soon