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Hand Shadow Wiggle

Parent and toddler make and move hand shadows on a wall, discovering that their own movement makes the shadow move.

Cartoon illustration of a parent and child at home doing Hand Shadow Wiggle.
  • Age13 months to 2 years
  • Time5 to 15 minutes
  • EnergyCalm
  • CostFree
  • WhereIndoors
  • Prep5 min

You and your toddler make hand shadows on a wall and wiggle them about, a quiet, wondering game where they discover that their own movement makes the shadow move.

How to do it

  1. Dim the room and shine a lamp or torch at a bare wall.
  2. Hold your hand in the light so a shadow appears and wiggle it slowly.
  3. Lift your toddler's hand into the light so their own shadow appears.
  4. Pause and let them move their hand and notice the shadow copying them.
  5. Make slow, simple shapes together for as long as they stay curious.

What you need

  • Lamp
  • Wall

Make it yours

Younger (12-15 months): Just show them your shadow moving and let them watch. Older (2-3 years): Make simple shapes like a bird and name them. Siblings: Let each child find their own shadow side by side

Try this with your child.

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