Early Atlas

Activity

Where Is It? Word Game

A playful naming game where the child finds named objects and explores positional words like on and under.

Ages 12–36 months

Inspired by Play-based learning Montessori vocabulary comprehension positional-words toddler

Supports this milestone

  • understands an increasing number of words used in communication with others. — Head Start ELOF

Explore milestones →

Materials

  • Four or five familiar objects (cup, spoon, ball, toy car, book)
  • A small box or basket and a low table or tray

Steps

  • Name one object and ask, "Where is the cup?" Wait for the child to look at or touch it.
  • Celebrate the find, then repeat with each object at the child's pace.
  • Add a positional twist, "Put the ball under the box," and help if needed.
  • Try "on top," "up high," and "down low" with the objects.
  • Let the child give you a direction to follow, too.

Variations

  • Hide an object and ask the child to find where it went.
  • Use family photos and ask, "Where is Grandma?"

Differentiation

  • For younger toddlers, start with two objects and no positional words.
  • For older toddlers, chain two ideas, "Put the spoon in the cup."

Accessibility

  • Accept eye gaze, reaching, or AAC selections as finding the object.
  • Pair words with signs or pictures for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Safety

  • Choose objects with no small parts for children who still mouth things.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas