Bounce and Talk
Parent plays a simple ball-bouncing game with toddler, encouraging verbal expression through object naming and simple phrases. The agent coaches the parent to observe vocabulary use, word combinations, and communicative intent — building language production skills through playful interaction.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Parent and toddler sitting on floor facing each other, about 3 feet apart. Soft ball that toddler can grip easily. Box or basket nearby to collect ball. Space should be clear of obstacles for safe play.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by holding up the ball and saying 'Ball!' with enthusiasm. Then gently bounce it to your child. When they catches or picks it up, ask 'What do you have?' or 'What's that?' Watch closely — does your child try to say 'ball' or name it with another word? Even if they just gestures or makes a sound, that's communication! Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Toddler attempts to name the ball or other objects during play, using single words or approximations.
- 2~40s
Now let's add some action words. Bounce the ball to your child again, but this time say 'Bounce ball!' as you do it. When your child has the ball, encourage them to bounce it back to you. You might say 'Your turn! Bounce to mama/dada.' Watch for any attempt to combine words — like 'more ball' or 'my ball' or even 'bounce' alone. What do you hear?
Watch for: Toddler combines two words together during play, either spontaneously or in imitation.
- 3~35s
Let's change the game slightly. Put the box between you and say 'Let's put the ball in the box!' Demonstrate by dropping the ball in. Then give the ball to your child and wait. See if they communicates what they wants to do — maybe saying 'in' or 'box' or 'my turn'. Watch for communicative intent: does your child use words, gestures, or expressions to tell you their plan?
Watch for: Toddler uses language to express intentions, desires, or plans during play, showing understanding of communication purpose.