While visiting with my parents on Christmas, the twins reminded the family of a game that I’m sure many moms have played before. We call it “____Thank-You”. The blank can be filled in with whatever item the baby is handing you. Recently I’ve had the pleasure of joining a rousing game of “Pacifier-Thank-You”, “Spoon-Thank-You”, and even “Cheerio-Thank-You”. As you can see, the front yard at my parents’ house has plenty of rocks adorning the walk. The twins were brought out front for some fresh air after opening presents and instantly “Rock-Thank-You” was born.
Here’s how the game works: You are handed a rock. You tell the baby “Thank you!”, and the baby takes the rock back. Then she gives it to you again. After you smile and say, “Thank you!”, the baby again takes possession of the rock. Repeat. And repeat, and repeat, and repeat…
The best thing about “Rock-Thank-You” is that there are no winners or losers. Anyone can play with the baby, as long as you have enough manners to say, “Thank you!”, otherwise you are given a confused look and will be passed over for a more polite participant.