Where's that noise?

What to do with this activity?

Have fun with things that squeak, crinkle, ring or go ting-a-ling!

Every baby is different, but usually at around four months old, babies start to look for the source of a sound. They love a gentle surprise, so make a noisy toy pop up in unusual places - behind their head, above their head, popping out from under something. Have fun sitting on a squeaky toy then act surprised at the noise. Your baby might like playing with crinkly paper, or with a toy that plays a tune if you press a button or strike it.

Play happy music on the radio. Dance around together. Once they are used to that, play fun games where you stop the music, stay still, then start it up again. Your baby will be alert to all the changes.

The most important sound your baby hears is your voice. Talk to them all the time about everything you are doing together.

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Why am I doing this?

Sharing stories play an important role in a child’s development. They not only help children learn language and reading skills but they also have an emotional quality which can help children make sense of their feelings. Reading to babies and young children, and giving them time to respond, will help make the most of this opportunity. Recognising shapes will help your child to learn to read later on.
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How can I do more?

The most important thing is that reading is fun and enjoyable for both of you – five minutes can be enough. Just turn off the TV and find a quiet place so there are no distractions. And remember stories are not just found in books, it’s just as good to tell your child short, simple stories you know.

Remember, you’re not teaching your child to read. You learn to talk a long time before you learn to read, and sharing stories and giving your child time to respond is a wonderful way to help your child’s language development.