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Expert Q&A

	By Rae Pica Physical Activity Specialist

My baby loves to imitate me. How can I use this to help her development?

Babies are great at mimicking, and at about 10 months of age they have a greater understanding of what they're doing and really enjoy it. Surprisingly enough, imitating is an important skill, as the ability to physically replicate what the eyes are seeing comes in handy later for activities such as writing and drawing. Also, imitation helps confirm for babies that they're like other people.

Play the mirror game with Baby while sitting and facing each other. Stick out your tongue, wiggle your fingers in your ears, wave your arms up and down, all while encouraging Baby to do likewise. When Baby is ready to figure out how the game is played, encourage him to lead while you imitate.

Later, when Baby is mobile, "Follow the Leader" is a wonderful game to play. It will encourage imitating and also provide practice with walking. Be sure to vary the speed of your movements, the pathways you take (possibilities are straight, curving and zigzagging) and your body's shape (big, small, wide, etc.).

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