Two-way exchanges between babies and adults help build up language and brain development. Anne O'Connor considers how practitioners can create more opportunities for them.

Orson and his mother are on the floor together. Playing games with Mum is fun, but when she hides behind the book, there is a moment of concern for Orson, though this soon turns to delight when Mum reappears. Mum responds by repeating the action and Orson enjoys the anticipation and excitement of what is to happen.

They repeat the game over and over, with Mum giving Orson time to initiate and respond. This turn-taking between the two of them is a form of conversation.

The experience of playing such games is not only helping the development of Orson's communication and language skills, it is also forging connections in his brain as he relates to the lovely feelings that positive interactions bring.

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