Signs of the Time
A baby has absolutely no concept of time. But he is likely to notice the clock on the wall or on the bedside table. He may even be aware of the insistent ticking of an analog clock, and he will certainly notice a wake-up alarm. Whether it is the sight or the sound of a clock that piques his interest, he will certainly want to know what to call it.
If you have an analog clock with a plastic cover, allow your baby to hold it so that he can watch the second hand as it ticks by. The plastic cover is a necessity. Otherwise, your child would probably tug at the clock’s hands, bending or even breaking them. This very basic household item can actually provide a great deal of entertainment for your little one.
E-SSENTIAL
A chiming clock can provide an easy counting lesson. Count each chime out loud as it sounds. When the chimes have finished, tell your baby the time. For instance, you might say, “It is ten o’clock. It’s time to go outside.” You can do this throughout the day for the parts of baby’s routine that are scheduled.
The sign for CLOCK, as shown in Figures 14–4 and 14–5, is a two-step process.
FIGURE 14–4
FIGURE 14–5
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1. Touch your wrist with a slightly curled index finger.
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2. Form an open circle in the air with both hands, to indicate the shape of a wall clock.
This sign can be used with any clock. However, because a baby will not understand the function of a clock, he may be confused if you label two completely different objects with the same name and the same sign.
WATCHThe sign for WATCH (
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1. Touch the top of your wrist with your slightly curled index finger.
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2. Wrap your thumb and middle finger around your wrist, to indicate the band of a watch.
Your child, of course, will probably start by wrapping all of his fingers around his wrist.
Babies are often interested in watches, primarily because they are something to play with. If you have an old plastic watch, see if your baby wants to wear it. You might find, however, that he is annoyed at having something attached to his wrist. If so, he will probably be content to clutch it in his hand. Just be sure that there are no loose pieces on the watch and that your baby is under close supervision while he plays with it. Alternatively, you could get him a toy watch that is intended for very young children.
