Flash cards

Why not try making your own flashcards that can be used for a number of different activities? If you have access to a computer and printer, you could make these by looking for a template online or choosing pictures yourself, perhaps of things your child is particularly interested in. You can choose to add a word underneath, if you wish to. If you don’t have access to a printer, you could use some magazines to cut and stick pictures from. Same idea, just cut out a picture, stick it on your card and write underneath what it is. Alternatively, to those of you with artistic skills, try drawing simple images of everyday objects or things your child will be interested in looking at and talking about such as animals, or objects found around the home. 

Sticking your pictures onto card will help make them more durable and longer lasting, for little hands to explore! Ideas on how to use them:

1. For older children, you could start a game asking them to find the apple or can you see the tree? Spread the cards out in front of them and turn it into a challenge to see how quickly they can find that card. 
2. You could make a set of flashcards with items similar to things in your own home and as you show a flashcard, move around the house with your baby or child to find the real item and talk to your child about it.
3. For young babies, sticking interesting pictures to a wall or surface they can access during tummy time can encourage them to explore on their tummy for longer, particularly as they will enjoy reaching for the cards and wanting to pull them off!
4. If your child is old enough, let them pick a card and encourage them to help you find the real version of the item – going on a hunt around the house or garden is a great way to keep on the move.