What is joint attention?

Joint attention can help babies, toddlers and children develop their speaking, listening and social skills – but what is it? 

Joint attention is when one person deliberately coordinates the focus of their attention to the same thing as another person. 

An example of this could be when your toddler points out something that excites them, and you join them in looking at, and talking about, what they are interested in.  

Follow your child’s lead 

If they are bringing your focus to something and you join in they are more likely to be engaged in whatever it is.  

They may lead this shared episode through gesture (pointing at something), or vocally, through words, sounds or phrases. 

Responding when your toddler shows you what they’re interested in 

Starting joint attention is simple really, all you need to do is notice what your toddler is interested in and show that you are too!  

Using eye contact, get down to your toddler's level and use words and gestures to show your toddler that you are engaged in what they want to share with you.  

Why is joint attention so great? 

Moments of joint attention can help you and your toddler bond and strengthen your relationship. It can also support toddlers in developing their speech, as well as getting used to turn taking and starting a conversation.