Let’s Laugh

© Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Early Education and Care. All rights reserved.

It’s easy to make a baby laugh. Most actions that make babies laugh involve both predictability and surprise, such as the anticipation game “This Little Piggy” or tummy kisses. The games that make some babies laugh may be too much for others, so watch closely and take your cues from babies and their parents. Lean on the side of gentleness and predictability.

• Play peek-a-boo to get a baby laughing. Hide your face behind a book, scarf, or anything. Pop your face out from behind and say, Peek-a-boo! Be prepared, because once a baby catches on to the game she will want to do it over and over again.
• Create unusual, silly, or exaggerated sounds to get a baby to laugh. While changing a baby or reading to her, try using a slurping, growling, or giggling voice as you talk with her.
• Put on some lively music. Then grab a scarf, ribbon, or a baby’s favorite toy and start a silly dance. Encourage the baby to join in.
• Read a funny story. Face a baby and get up close so she can see your face clearly. Use lots of silly facial expressions as you read. Change your voice as you change characters and act out silly events in the story. Encourage her to join in.

You may want to ask families, colleagues, and older children to help you make books with photos of the laughing babies and baby entertainment strategies that work in your setting. Encourage families and colleagues to use and enjoy the books together.