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When my baby drops something he does not look for it. Has he forgotten about it?

Last Updated: April 05, 2007

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Watch how your baby reacts when things disappear from view. Does your baby lean over to look for things he dropped? Does he look for a favorite toy? These are signs that your baby’s memory is growing. When he was younger, out of sight was out of mind. Now, he is learning that things exist even when he can’t see them. You can have fun with your baby, and help his memory. Show your baby a toy, and then cover it — slowly at first — with a cloth or cup. Does your baby try to pull the cover off? What if you cover only part of the toy? Try different toys and different covers. Play peek-a-boo to help your baby learn that you come back when you go away. Sometimes, cover your face and sometimes cover his. If your baby doesn’t have fun playing these games now, wait a few weeks and try again.

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