May 15, 2014 · When an infant or young child babbles, gestures, or cries, and an adult responds with eye contact, words, or a hug, this back-and-forth interaction—known as serve and …

Simple “serve and return” responsive interactions between adults and young children help make strong connections in developing brains. And it’s easy and fun to do! This video shares five...

When a young child says something (or a baby babbles or coos), looks at something, or does something and an adult responds with eye contact, words, or actions, that’s serve and return. …

Jan 29, 2025 · Serve and return interactions help to build and strengthen neural connections, laying the groundwork for early language and social skills. These foundational skills are critical …

All carers therefore play a key role in helping to shape a child’s brain so the child can develop the emotional and cognitive skills needed for life. One simple technique carers can use is ‘serve …

A responsive caregiver will “return the serve” by speaking back, playing peekaboo, or sharing a toy or a laugh. These back-and-forth exchanges are the building blocks of children's early …

Apr 13, 2004 · Learn how responsive, back-and-forth exchanges between a young child and a caring adult—known as serve and return interactions—play a key role in shaping brain …

Responsive, attentive adults can support healthy brain development in young children through back and forth exchanges. Follow the 5 steps below to practice “serve and return” interactions.

5 Steps for Brain-Building Serve and Return (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University) Description: Child-adult relationships that are responsive and attentive—with lots of …

“Serve and return” is a term coined by the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University to describe the back-and-forth interactions between adults and children and that build the …