Does your baby offer a toy but then not want you to take it? It’s a fascinating part of their social development

Your baby is starting to realise that they can use a toy or object to get you interested in playing with them. This might not always work as you expect: they might look like they’re offering you something to hold or play with, but not let go! So, what does this new way of playing tell you about your baby’s social development?  

They’ve found new ways to start a conversation 

Your baby has been watching how people start conversations and has probably used sounds, wiggles and smiles to encourage you to have a chat.  

Now, they understand they can use the things around them to show you they are ready to play. Your baby might hold a toy out towards you – but then just as you reach to take it, they might seem confused or move it away.  

They don’t know what you are expecting  

When your baby takes the toy away from you again, they’re not demonstrating an unkind character trait – it simply shows that their social understanding is still developing.  

Your baby has taken a big step in their understanding; they realise that objects can be used to start a conversation or a game. What they don’t realise yet is that you (or whoever else they offer the object to) might want to hold it.  

So, when your baby shows you a toy or object, respond by saying something about it to continue the conversation your baby has started!