Gentle Arm Stretches
Parent guides baby through gentle arm stretches while lying on back, observing head control and body awareness. The agent coaches the parent to notice head stability during movement, bilateral coordination, and bonding through rhythmic touch and chanting.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Baby lying on back on a soft, comfortable surface (blanket or mat). Baby should be calm and alert. No materials needed. Best done before nap time when baby is relaxed.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by gently taking your child's left hand. Slowly stretch their arm up above their head in a big circle, chanting 'around, around, so wide and slow' as you bring it back down to their belly. Watch your child's head closely — does they keep their head steady during the stretch, or does it wobble or tilt to the side? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Baby maintains head position with minimal wobbling when arm is stretched overhead.
- 2~30s
Now repeat the same gentle stretch with your child's right arm — big slow circle up and back down. This time, watch to see if your child turns their head to follow the moving arm. Does they look toward the stretching side, or does their head stay centered? Even a slight turn counts!
Watch for: Baby turns head to left or right while lying on back to follow the stretching arm.
- 3~30s
Now bring both of your child's hands together on their belly. Move them in a small, quick circle while chanting 'around, around, so small and quick!' Watch your child's whole body response — does they seem to enjoy the rhythm? Do you see any signs of body awareness like their legs moving in response or a happy expression?
Watch for: Baby shows awareness of bilateral movement through whole-body responses or enjoyment.