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Mutual face watching
- 1-5 Years
- 5-11 Years
- SEND
- Speech, language and communication
Mutual face watching is sitting in silence with a child and saying 1 word, but only when they look towards your face. Whilst you are likely to already be playing with the child, this will be something that will feel new and may feel strange as you start.
Mutual face watching (also known as VERVE) is a strategy developed by Keena Cummins. Read more about VERVE.
How mutual face watching can help
- It helps the child feel calm and relaxed as they play.
- It helps them be ready to listen and learn.
- It helps you to notice and understand the child better.
- It lets the child take in what you say when they are ready.
- The words you use will have a bigger impact.
How to use mutual face watching
- Remove all distractions, such as turning off the TV, putting your phone on silent and making sure other children are looked after.
- Let the child choose an activity, toy or game. Try to avoid them watching TV, playing on the computer or playing a lively outdoor game.
- Sit on the floor with the child so it is easy for them to look towards your face when they're ready.
- Sit still and be silent as you observe them playing. Do not play with them, but watch them play carefully.
- If they look towards your face, you can say a single word about what they are doing or what they can see. For example, 'car', 'eating', or 'yum'. Do not ask them to look at you, allow it to happen naturally. Don't worry if they don't look at you.
- When they look away, stop talking. Next time they look at you, you can say a different word or repeat the same word.
Try to do this daily. If the child does not look at you, don'y worry. Complete the special time with the child for that day. It may take time for you to see an impact.
Mutual face watching ideas
Last reviewed: 10 December, 2025
