Joint Attention

What is Joint Attention?

Joint attention is when you and your child share focus on the same thing: a book, toy, or activity. Both you and your child know you are sharing that moment. It is a vital skill for building language and social connections. Think of it as the foundation for talking and connection

How to increase Joint Attention

-Follow their lead: If a child is looking at something, join in! Point, comment, and share the moment.-Increase Face to Face: Be at their level -Use Gestures and Expressions: Your reaction pulls them in! -Play-turn-taking games: Peak-a-boo, rolling a ball, or blowing bubbles-Read together: Point to pictures, name things on the pages, and wait for their gaze or response

Joint Attention Every Day Moments

-Bath time: Point to bubble or toys and name them- “Pop! ”Did you see that?”

-Grocery Trips: Point out fruits and colors “Look at that big yellow banana!”

-Laundry Folding: Hold up clothes and let them “help” match while you talk about colors or sizes

Every shared look, point, or smile during these moments is a chance to connect and grow!

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Additional Resources

Zero to Three: www.zerotothree.org

Pathways.org: www.pathways.org

Another SLP blog post

“Nurturing Early Connections: Exploring Pre‑Linguistic Skills and Joint Attention in Children