Follow the Light
Parent uses a flashlight to guide their toddler through transitions between rooms or activities, turning routine changes into a playful game. The agent coaches the parent to observe how well their child follows simple instructions, stays engaged with the game, and manages the emotional shift of moving from one space to another.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Find a flashlight and dim the lights in the starting room. Choose a transition you need to make soon — like moving from playroom to bedroom for nap time. Make sure the path is safe and clear of obstacles.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by dimming the lights and turning on the flashlight. Shine it on the floor near your child's feet and say, 'your child, follow the light! Step where it shines!' Make your voice playful and inviting. Does your child look at the light? Does they take a step toward it or show interest in following? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Toddler follows a simple one-step instruction ('follow the light') with minimal prompting.
- 2~40s
Now slowly move the light toward the door or the next room. As you guide your child, watch their emotional response. Is they happily following, or does they hesitate at the threshold? Transitions can bring up uncertainty. Does your child stay engaged with the game, or does they look back toward the original room? Tell me how they handles the shift.
Watch for: Toddler manages the emotional shift of moving from one space/activity to another with minimal distress, using the game as support.
- 3~35s
Once you've reached the new room, try a little variation. Make the light jump on the wall or spin in a circle. Say, 'Can you touch the light?' or 'Dance with the light!' Watch if your child stays engaged with the play, tries to interact with the light in new ways, or initiates any actions. Does they seem to enjoy this interactive game with you?
Watch for: Toddler remains engaged in interactive play with parent, showing enjoyment and possibly initiating variations.