Why do babies like peekaboo

One of us hides our eyes and then slowly reveals them. This causes peals of laughter from a baby, which causes us to laugh in turn. Then we do it again. And again. Peekaboo never gets old. Not only does my own infant daughter seem happy to do it for hours, but when I was young I played it with my mum "you chuckled a lot! We are all born with unique personalities, in unique situations and with unique genes. So why is it that babies across the world are constantly rediscovering peekaboo for themselves?

Babies don't read books, and they don't know that many people, so the surprising durability and cultural universality of peekaboo is perhaps a clue that it taps into something fundamental in their minds. No mere habit or fashion, the game can help show us the foundations on which adult human thought is built. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. When Do Babies Play Peekaboo? Medically Reviewed by Micah Resnick, M.

Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Getty Images. The classic baby game is a classic for a reason — actually, lots of reasons! Back to Top. In This Article.

Continue Reading Below. Read This Next. View Sources. First Year. Unlike a physical milestone like walking, laughing is about personality, and some kids are naturally serious. Some babies may never show interest in peekaboo just because they prefer other games and that can be chalked up to individuality.

Not playing peekaboo on its own cannot lead to any diagnosis without other contributing factors. If you have any cause for concern, always consult your pediatrician. Why should babies play peekaboo? Babies gain a lot from the seemingly simple game: Visual stimulation creates new brain cell connections, and the repetition strengthens them.

They learn socially about taking turns, eye contact, smiling, and give-and-take. Why do babies love peek-a-boo? This is why peek-a-boo is fun for them, and helps stimulate their brain. Fisher notes that before babies hit 6 to 9 months of age, they don't comprehend that something hidden is actually still there and think that if they can't see something, it's gone forever.