A Caring Little Helper

1. 1

   Play a family-care game. One caregiver pretends to need help while another stays with your child and models what to do.

2. 2

   The first caregiver might pretend to stumble and say, “Ouch. That hurts a little.”

3. 3

   Respond gently: “It’s okay. I’m here.” Invite your child to offer a soft pat or touch.

4. 4

   Bring a small towel, an adhesive bandage, or a toy medical kit and let your child pretend to wipe or bandage the sore spot.

5. 5

   If your child is unsure, offer two concrete choices: “Would a teddy bear or a bandage help?”

6. 6

   After the care is complete, the first caregiver can thank your child with a smile, hug, or kiss so the exchange ends warmly.

What to notice

• Gently pats the caregiver after noticing the pretend injury Emotional Functioning
• Pretends to bandage the caregiver’s sore spot Imitation and Symbolic Representation and Play

Tips

• Use a clear expression and slightly exaggerated voice so your child notices that the caregiver needs comfort.
• If your child stays still and watches, let them observe how you respond before inviting them again.

Developmental benefits

• Social/Emotional: Watching you comfort someone and joining with a manageable caring action gives your child practice expressing concern through what they do.
• Cognitive: Pretending that someone is hurt, offering care, and receiving thanks helps your child represent familiar experiences of injury, comfort, and help.