Acknowledgements - gapitc

Personal relationships
with adults
Activities and Strategies
for Development
MeMaw Rocks; Pa Pa Wrestles
When you spend play time with your child, watch closely to see the kinds of
physical contact that your child likes.
For example, if your toddler brings you one of his books, make this a special
quiet time for the two of you.
Curl up together in a cozy rocking chair or stuffed chair.
Point out the pictures on the pages and talk about them.
Say, for example, “Where is the puppy? Where is the Momma dog?”
Even if it’s only for a short time, give your child your full attention.
At other times, your child may show you that he wants to play more actively by
running toward you, grabbing your leg, or throwing his arms around your neck.
When your toddler wants more active play, invite him to lie on a carpet, air
mattress, or soft grass.
Gently roll your child back and forth, stretch his legs and give them a wiggle;
stretch his arms and give them a tickle.
Your child’s laughter will let you know that he enjoys this special activity
with you.
If your child’s facial expression or body language shows discomfort or fear, avoid
wrestling or other highly physical play.
Mama, Do You Love Me?
Read Mama, Do You Love Me?, by Barbara M. Joosse, to your child.
This book is available as a board book for toddlers and in a Spanish translation.
The author wrote Mama for her two-year-old son, Robby. He knew his
mother loved him most of the time, but he wanted to know if she loved him
when he was naughty. His mother told him what most parents want their
children to know: That she would love him, “forever and for always, because he
was her Dear One.”
After reading the story, or telling the story from the pictures, tell your child that
she is loved too, whether you have a happy face or sad face.
Say, for example, “Mommy has a happy face when you hold my hand. Mommy has
a sad face when you hurt the kitty. But mommy loves you all the time.”
Other books about family times will work well too!
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