A child explores a toy to see how s/he can make it "work". This begins with combination play such as banging toys against each other or a surface, emptying containers (dumping) and knocking blocks down. The child slowly begins to use toys as they are designed to be used; where the toy design "speaks" to them!

Reactive toys are used which are very responsive to a child's manipulation and may offer multiple areas responding in different reactions. Child begins to understand cause and effect in that specific actions result in specific responses.

• Provide opportunities for the child to develop balance and movement skills

• Foster independence by encouraging child to pull off socks, use a cup, a spoon

• Provide opportunities for child to find objects that are hidden under blankets, bowls, things to knock over, etc.

• Provide activities to follow the child's lead; drop & fetch, "singing", etc.

• Play peek-a-boo games

• Play games with tickles and touches with anticipated results

• Encourage activities where adult or older sibling follows what the child does; child as leader