Family Gesture Circle
Parent and family members sit in a circle with baby, taking turns making simple gestures like waving, pointing, and blowing kisses. The agent coaches the parent to observe baby's emerging communication skills — greeting gestures, requests for help, and pointing to desired objects — building early social communication within the family context.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Family members sitting in a circle on the floor. Baby positioned where they can see everyone. Have a few favorite toys nearby but not immediately in baby's hands. Space should be comfortable and inviting.
How it works
- 1~30s
Let's start with simple greetings. You begin, you — wave to your child and say 'Hello!' with a big smile. Watch their response closely. Does your child try to wave back? Even a small hand movement or opening and closing their fingers counts. Or does they respond with a smile or vocalization instead? Tell me what communication you see.
Watch for: Baby attempts to wave hello or goodbye in response to family member's greeting gesture.
- 2~40s
Now let's encourage requesting. Place one of your child's favorite toys just out of reach — maybe a colorful ball or stacking cup. Watch what they does. Does your child look at the toy, then at you, and maybe reach with an open hand or make a grasping motion? That's asking for help! Or does they try to get it themself? Notice any gestures that seem to say 'I need help with this.'
Watch for: Baby uses gestures to request help from family members when something is out of reach or difficult.
- 3~35s
Now let's bring in another family member. Have them hold up two different toys — maybe a stuffed animal and a rattle. Ask your child 'Which one do you want?' Watch carefully. Does your child point to one of the toys? Even an index finger extending slightly counts. Or does they reach, look intently, or use another way to show preference? We're looking for that magical pointing gesture that says 'I want that one!'
Watch for: Baby points with index finger to indicate desired objects when given choices.