5 Proven Strategies to Teach Object Imitation - PEC Imitation Series Part 3
Previously, we discussed types of Imitation. At Parent Empowerment Coaching, We highly emphasize children’s learning via object imitation. Here are some examples of object imitation.
Use the same toy. No need to buy new toys. Find out what toys you already have that your child likes. This will help you take advantage of your child’s interest. This can be blocks, balls, musical toys, or monster trucks. If your child is rolling a car back and forth, do the same. Playing with the toy excitedly is a good way to get your child curious.
Model appropriate play. Do not get frustrated if your child twists an object close to the eye or sniffs or mouth to explore toys, repeating a phrase from a TV while playing with a toy. You can model appropriate action.
Curiosity and exploration are part of the imitation process so play in a nontraditional way at the time and then mix in some traditional ways to pay with an object. The key is making the child interested in learning more and exploring the object versus rotely doing the same thing over and over
Remember to comment on your child’s play. Avoid direct comments. Start commenting on your child’s play. Good comments like, “Ohh I have a horse and he’s hungry, I am going to give him some food.”
Remember to make it fun! Your laugh and joy during the play go a long way. Be present at those moments and make it fun for your child. Put on a costume yourself when your child puts on his dinosaur costume. Pretending to run away from the dinosaur. Be animated.
Keep stages of play in mind. Do not rush it.
Independent play (birth to 2 years old). Kids play by themselves during this stage
Onlooker plays (Around 2 years old). Kids watch others playing but do not participate
Parallel play (2-3 years old). Kids play next to each other.
Associate play (3-4 years old). Kids become more interested in what other kids do but still do things mainly on their own. Kids build blocks together and occasionally share blocks
Cooperative play (4-5 years old). Kids take turns building a castle using magnetic tiles
Understanding the different types of imitation is the key to unlocking your child's potential. Reach out to us today and make imitation a powerful tool in your parenting arsenal.
Be sure to stay tuned for Part 4 of our PEC Imitation Series, and if you haven't already, consider subscribing to our Newsletter community for regular updates, tips, and resources.
Ready to take the next step? Book a free consultation with us now to start your child on a path to accelerated learning and development.
