Hiding and finding Activity
Similar to ‘peekaboo’, hiding objects is a fun way to support baby’s understanding that things continue to exist even if they are hidden (called ‘object permanence’). Having fun as you take turns together will also strengthen your relationship.
Why do it?
- Experiences with hiding and finding things help baby to develop and strengthen their understanding of ‘object permanence’.
- Activities with whānau strengthen their relationship with baby and help build baby’s language.
How to do it
You’ll need:
- objects to hide — start with baby’s favourite toy
- covers for hiding things under, such as containers (both transparent and opaque), and a cloth or small blanket.
Some tricks:
- Let baby watch as you hide their soft toy under the cover. Ask baby, ‘Where’s Teddy?’ If necessary, partly reveal Teddy and ask again.
- Encourage baby to move the covering to find Teddy and show your excitement when they do.
- Try hiding Teddy in other places and ask the question again.
- Repeat the game with a different objects.
Using more te reo Māori
| Te reo Māori | English |
|---|---|
| Ngā taonga tākaro | Toys or playthings |
| Piringa | Shelter, hiding place |
| Uhi | Covering |
| Pūataata | Transparent, clear |
| Ipu | Container |
| Mātaki | Watch, observe |
| Kimihia | Look for, search |
| Rapu | Hunt, investigate |
| Kite(a) | Find, discover |
| Huna | Hide |
| Teti pea | Teddy bear |
| Kei hea a Teti? | Where's Teddy? |
| Pōro, paoro | Ball |
| Kei hea te paoro? | Where's the ball? |
| Pukapuka | Book |
| Kei hea ngā pukapuka? | Where are the books? |
| Kino kē koe e te tau! | You're awesome my darling! |
| Kātahi te tama mōhio, ko koe | What a clever boy you are |
| He aha kei raro i te pouaka? | What's under the box? |
| He hū tēnei | This is a shoe |
