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Try playing a copying game together. You could copy each other clapping, dancing, or making animal noises.
Practising taking turns when copying helps your child to learn the back and forth rhythm of conversations.
There are loads of different actions you could try during this game. You can watch the families in the video below for some inspiration.
The benefits of playing copying games with toddlers
- Playing copycat with your little one helps them feel noticed and important, which will help build their confidence.
- Following your lead allows toddlers to learn to follow and interpret verbal instructions and physical movements.
- Copying your child's noises and actions helps them feel listened to.
- Using phrases such as 'Daddy's turn' or 'Emma's go' will encourage your child to recognise when it is their turn.
- Taking turns is a key skill for learning about the back and forth of conversation.
How to play copycat
Take turns to copy each other using simple actions and commands.
You could say 'My turn to clap' and then 'Can you copy me?'.
You can introduce loads of new words to your child when you play this game, from verbs and colours, to numbers, body parts and loads more.
Pause and wait for your child to copy you and offer plenty of praise when they do.
Once they master this game with simple instructions, you could move onto action songs such as 'If you're happy and you know it' or games with more complex commands like Simon Says.
Ideas for copying games
If you're enjoying playing this game at home with your child but are struggling to come up with more fun instructions, check out the list below for inspiration.
| Clap | High five | Make an animal noise |
| Thumbs up | Touch your toes | Reach for the sky |
| Stand on tip toes | Drum | Put on some clothes |
| Dance | Shake or nod your head | Pull silly faces |
Encourage your child to take turns in copying - you can have a go copying them first, and then let your child have a go at copying you.
More turn-taking games for 2 year olds
- You could try taking turns to hide a toy and give each other clues as to where it is.
- Or you might like to make your own homemade skittles with bottles from the recycling and taking turns to knock them down.
- Why not use turn-taking to teach them about feelings by practising making faces with your child??
