← The Circle at Our Table · Lesson 1 of 6
Notice the opening
Play with a small child is a conversation, even before words. The child opens: a look, a block held out, a sound. Developmental psychologists sometimes call one full exchange a circle: they open, you answer, they answer back.
The first skill is only to notice the opening. It is easy to miss, because grown-ups are used to starting things. Watch for what the child is already doing and offering, and treat it as the first move.
A toddler holds a spoon out towards you and looks at your face. What is this?
A lesson is kept once you've answered the question and written at least 8 words. Nobody grades it; it stays on this device.