Light the Towers
Parent and child build block towers and shine a flashlight to create shadows on the wall. The agent coaches the parent to observe and encourage word attempts, sound imitation, and simple vocabulary expression during this imaginative play — building early language skills through sensory-rich interaction.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Building blocks and flashlight ready. Choose location near blank wall where shadows will be visible. Ensure room can be dimmed slightly for better shadow effect. Parent and child seated comfortably together.
How it works
- 1~45s
Start by inviting your child to help you stack the blocks. As you build the first tower together, use simple words like 'up, up' or 'more block.' Watch your child's face and listen closely — does they try to repeat any of your words? Even attempts like 'uh' for 'up' or 'mo' for 'more' count! Tell me what word attempts you hear.
Watch for: Child attempts to say words or word approximations during block stacking, showing emerging expressive language.
- 2~50s
Now place your tower near the wall and dim the lights a bit. Shine the flashlight to create a shadow. Point excitedly and say 'Look! Shadow!' or 'Big shadow!' Use different tones — whisper 'ooooh' or say 'WOW!' in an excited voice. Watch how your child responds. Does they try to mimic your tone or volume? Does they say anything about the shadow?
Watch for: Child attempts to mimic parent's vocal tone, volume, or expressive sounds during shadow play.
- 3~55s
Let's extend the play. Build a second tower and say 'Two towers!' or 'More towers!' You could even pretend the blocks are foods your child knows — 'This block is apple, this one is cookie.' See if your child tries to name any blocks or foods. Does they attempt words like 'two,' 'more,' or any food names? Even 'coo' for cookie or 'app' for apple counts!
Watch for: Child attempts to name foods or other familiar items during pretend play with blocks.