Following your child's interests

Use objects that your baby shows an interest in. And help them learn through repeated behaviours – called schemas.

Following your child's interests

Using interests and schemas in play is one of our fun activities for Early Years.

Children often surprise us in what they are interested in. 

You've probably heard other parents saying, ‘‘I think my child preferred the box more than the actual present’’.

When a child is interested in something, they'll naturally want to learn more about it.

Baby interests

When talking to your baby – follow their lead. 

Are they showing an interest in a toy or object? Use them in your interactions.

If they're touching their toes, start talking about and playing with them too.

The baby in the photograph was fascinated with the leaves. 

His parents let him play, while chatting about what he was doing.

Baby interests

Young toddlers

Around 18 months to 2 years, children may start to demonstrate repeated patterns of behaviours.  

These behaviours are called schemas. They're a natural part of a child’s development. 

By giving your child more opportunities to do the same thing over and over again – you're helping them make connections to how things work in the world around them.

Here are 3 examples of popular schemas:

Young toddlers

1. Things that rotate or turn

Kids are fascinated by things that rotate or turn. 

Try objects such as: 

  • pull-along toys;
  • wheels on a toy car;
  • or even salad spinners.
1. Things that rotate or turn

2. Collecting things

Is your little one collecting things in containers or bags?

At least it keeps the place clean.

And you'll know where to look if something goes missing.

2. Collecting things

3. Lining things up

You might find your child lining up objects in a row.

From toy cars to chocolates and pencils to fruit.

Even your trainers might end up in an orderly line.

3. Lining things up

Older toddlers

As your children get older, use their interests to engage them in learning. 

For example, if your child is interested in dinosaurs, use toy dinosaurs to count with them. 

Or read books about dinosaurs to hold their interest in a story.

Older toddlers

What is my child learning?

Personal, social and emotional development: building confidence by selecting and engaging in activities that interest them. Demonstrating high levels of involvement during self-chosen activities.

Communication and language: learning new words and beginning to ask questions about things that interest them.

Physical development: using tools to manipulate objects of interest.

What is my child learning?

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