Count the Steps to Bed
Parent incorporates counting into the bedtime routine by counting steps from bathroom to bed/chair. The agent coaches the parent to observe number recognition, routine participation, and language comprehension during this calming transition activity.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
During bedtime routine, after bath/brushing teeth. Parent and child in bathroom or starting point. No materials needed. Child should be calm and ready for bedtime transition.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by getting down to your child's level and saying, 'Let's count our steps to bed!' Take their hand and begin walking slowly. Count out loud, 'One... two... three...' as you take each step together. Watch your child's face — does they seem interested in the counting? Does they try to say any numbers with you? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Child participates willingly in bedtime routine activity, showing engagement with the transition ritual.
- 2~35s
Now let's focus on the numbers themselves. As you count, pause after 'three' and see if your child anticipates 'four.' Or try counting to five and see if they tries to say any numbers along with you — even approximations like 'fwuh' for 'four' or 'fie' for 'five.' Does your child show any recognition of the number sequence?
Watch for: Child attempts to say numbers or shows recognition of counting sequence during the activity.
- 3~30s
For our last observation, let's add a simple instruction. After you reach the bed or chair, say, 'Let's count how many steps we took!' Then ask, 'Can you show me with your fingers?' Hold up your own fingers as you count them. Watch if your child tries to hold up fingers too or shows understanding of the question. Does they comprehend this simple instruction about the counting activity?
Watch for: Child shows comprehension of simple instruction related to the counting activity.