t h i n k i n g s k i l l s 63
Understanding why things happen
(cause and effect)
When a young baby plays with toys, he does not know what will
happen. But slowly he learns that by doing certain things — like
banging a toy on the floor — he can make other things happen — like a
loud noise. This is an important lesson for a baby, because he is learning
that he can have an effect on the world around him. He also learns that
he has some control over what happens. This makes him more curious
about how things work.
To help your baby learn about
cause and effect
Place noisy toys across the area where he
sleeps or plays. Make sure the toys are close
enough so he will accidentally hit or kick
them. Soon he will learn to hit and kick
them on purpose.
That was a tall
stack, Kontie!
Make a stack of small boxes or cans that your baby
can knock down. As he gets older, he can learn to
make the stack himself. Encourage him to see how
high he can make the stack before pushing it over,
and to notice the different sounds each box or can
makes.
Encourage him to put
things inside a box and
then toss them out.
helping children who are blind