There aren't many sounds in the world as sweet to the ears as a baby’s gleeful laugh. It is also very easy to get a baby to be that delighted. Can’t think of anything to do? Just play peek-a-boo!
There would be hardly anybody who has not played or heard of some version of this game. But did you know that this universal and easy-to-play game could help with your baby’s growth and development?
Let’s find out how.
What is Peek-a-boo?
Peekaboo is a classic hide-and-seek game where you cover your face and uncover it while saying, “Peekaboo”. This action makes babies laugh out loud.
For babies, object recognition develops at around their 3rd month, which is when they may start to actively respond to this game. Babies start to understand the concept of object permanence (when your baby can remember that even if they cannot see an object or a person, it still exists) by month 8.
By months 9 to 12, your baby will likely be able to play peekaboo on their own. So, babies of all ages can enjoy and learn from peekaboo.
Benefits of Playing Peek-A-Boo
Peek-a-boo is not just a game for your baby. Here are its benefits for your baby’s growth and development.
1. It strengthens the bond between you and your baby. Gazing, smiling, and vocalizing at each other are important aspects of early bonding in parent-child relationships.
There is eye contact, excitement, and interactive communication, which help build a strong bond between you two.
2. It teaches your baby the concepts of visual tracking and object permanence. This game helps babies understand that, even if your face is hidden, it does not mean that you have disappeared.
They start to comprehend that it is just a game and you are still there. This is crucial to forming a secure attachment and preparing the baby for longer separations in the future.
3. It helps your baby develop motor skills. As your baby grows older, they try to interact with you during the game and even mimic you.
For this, they move their hands and legs around and develop their motor skills (moving and coordinating the muscles of the body).
4. It teaches your baby social skills. When your baby has reached a stage where they are actively playing along with you, the game helps them learn how to socially engage with others.
It also teaches older children how to take turns while playing.
5. It helps your baby develop an idea of self and differentiation from others. The game may help your baby identify themselves as a separate entity from their surroundings. Initially, your baby may not perceive themselves to be different from you.
However, as they start growing, and through this game, they also realise that you are a different entity just like others around them. This is an important step in their development of self.
Games are fun. You do not need to follow any rules. Add your creative touch to the game or allow your child to take the lead and introduce variations, to keep the game interesting and strengthen your bond further.
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.