A little hello game

What you need

A familiar, age-appropriate soft toy and a comfortable place to play together. No special equipment is needed.

Let’s play together

1. Hold the toy where your child can see it. Say, “Hello, bunny!” or use the name of your own toy.
2. Wave and give your child time to respond. A look, movement, sound or word can all be part of the game.
3. Let the toy say hello to your child. Follow what they notice and keep the language simple.
4. Say “Bye-bye!” and wave together. Repeat if your child enjoys it, or stop when they want to move on.

Choose a little next step

For a child enjoying gestures, copy their wave or movement. For a child beginning to use words, repeat a familiar word without asking them to perform. For a child ready for pretend play, let them help the toy greet another toy.

For grown-ups

Stay alongside your child and use a toy suitable for their stage. Keep the activity relaxed and follow their interest. This is an idea for shared play, not a test or a developmental assessment.