Pointing to parts of the body: why it's important

Your baby didn't know they had different body parts when they were born, but as time moved on, they became aware of their hands, feet, face and more. As they gain control over their bodies, they are more able to connect body parts to words. Let’s look at how identifying parts of their body will be an important skill for your baby in everyday life... 

Language development 

Understanding that they can point to show you something, or make a request, is an important part of your baby's language development. They will be able to draw attention to things that they want, need or simply want to share with you. 

Social development 

There are loads of songs and rhymes about body parts, and now your baby can point to their own, they can engage in lots of lovely singing play. Sharing songs with you or other children can be a good way to boost your baby's social development, too. 

Play, fun and learning 

As your baby discovers more control of their hands and arms, they’ll find other things they can do, like pointing to their own body parts. This learning will eventually lead to more reaching and pointing discoveries as they play. 

Body awareness 

Being aware of their own body is becoming essential in their daily life. Thinking about moving around different spaces, getting dressed and undressed, transporting toys, all rely on your baby being aware of their own body and parts. 

You can support them in learning about their body by identifying, touching and moving certain body parts.