At 10 months old, your baby is a little bundle of energy and curiosity, always on the move and eager to explore the world around them. This is an important stage in their development, as they start to develop their motor skills and learn how to coordinate their movements. In this guide, we will take a closer look at how baby ball toys can help your 10-month-old develop their motor skills and reach important milestones.

Baby ball toys are a great way to encourage your baby’s natural curiosity and provide them with hours of fun and entertainment. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and can be used in a variety of ways to promote motor skill development. Whether your baby is just starting to reach for toys or is already crawling and pulling themselves up, baby ball toys can help them develop the skills they need to move and explore their environment.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to help your 10-month-old develop their motor skills, consider introducing them to baby ball toys. With their bright colors, soft textures, and endless possibilities for play, they are sure to provide hours of entertainment and help your baby reach important milestones.

Why Baby Ball Toys Are Important for Motor Skill Development

Benefits of Baby Ball Toys

Baby ball toys offer numerous benefits for motor skill development in 10-month-olds. These benefits include:

1. Hand-Eye Coordination:
   Baby ball toys help develop hand-eye coordination, which is crucial for future fine motor skills such as writing, drawing, and buttoning clothes. By tracking the ball as it rolls, babies learn to coordinate their eyes and hands, enhancing their ability to perform daily tasks.
2. Cognitive Development:
   Playing with baby ball toys stimulates cognitive development by promoting problem-solving skills. As babies try to roll the ball and knock over blocks or reach for the ball, they encounter challenges that require them to think creatively and experiment with different approaches. This process enhances their ability to reason, plan, and problem-solve.
3. Gross Motor Skills:
   Baby ball toys encourage gross motor skill development by promoting the use of large muscle groups. Pushing, rolling, and throwing the ball engages the legs, core, and arms, strengthening these muscles and preparing the baby for more advanced physical activities.
4. Social Interaction:
   Playing with baby ball toys also fosters social interaction and communication skills. As babies engage in play with others, they learn to share, take turns, and communicate their needs and desires. This fosters emotional development and helps them understand the importance of social connections.
5. Fine Motor Skill Development:
   Lastly, baby ball toys aid in the development of fine motor skills, such as grasping and releasing objects. By manipulating the ball and other toys, babies strengthen their hand muscles, improve their dexterity, and develop the necessary skills for future tasks like dressing themselves or using utensils.

Overall, baby ball toys provide a wealth of benefits for motor skill development in 10-month-olds, helping them grow and mature physically, cognitively, and socially.

Types of Baby Ball Toys

Baby ball toys come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed to promote different aspects of motor skill development in your 10-month-old. Here are some of the most common types of baby ball toys:

1. Soft and Plush Baby Ball Toys

These toys are typically made of soft, plush materials such as cotton or polyester. They are designed to be gentle on your baby’s skin and are perfect for encouraging exploration and touch. Soft baby ball toys are great for promoting hand-eye coordination, grasping, and manipulation skills.

1. Sensory Baby Ball Toys

Sensory baby ball toys are designed to stimulate your baby’s senses through various textures, colors, and sounds. They may have different patterns, rattles, or squeakers that create different sounds and sensations when shaken or bounced. These toys are great for promoting cognitive development, visual tracking, and auditory skills.

1. Floor-Time Baby Ball Toys

Floor-time baby ball toys are designed to be durable and withstand the rough play of active babies. They are typically made of rubber or vinyl and can be bounced, rolled, or thrown. These toys are great for promoting gross motor skills such as balance, coordination, and movement.

1. Teether Baby Ball Toys

Teether baby ball toys are designed to help soothe sore gums and teeth by providing a surface for your baby to chew on. They may have different textures or shapes that help massage your baby’s gums and promote healthy teeth development. These toys are great for promoting oral motor skills and self-soothing.

1. Stacking Baby Ball Toys

Stacking baby ball toys are designed to encourage your baby to practice stacking and nesting skills. They may have different-sized balls that your baby can stack and nest, promoting hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and problem-solving abilities.

Overall, the different types of baby ball toys provide a variety of experiences and opportunities for your 10-month-old to develop their motor skills. It’s important to choose toys that are appropriate for your baby’s developmental stage and interests, and to encourage play and exploration in a safe and supervised environment.

How to Choose the Right Baby Ball Toy for Your 10-Month-Old

Factors to Consider

When choosing a baby ball toy for your 10-month-old, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

• Age-appropriateness: Look for a baby ball toy that is designed specifically for 10-month-olds. These toys are typically made with softer materials and have simpler designs that are easier for your baby to grasp and manipulate.
• Size and weight: Make sure the baby ball toy you choose is the right size and weight for your baby. It should be light enough for your baby to hold and play with easily, but not so light that it will fly out of their hands.
• Material: Consider the material the baby ball toy is made from. Soft materials like plush or foam are great for babies who are still learning to grasp objects, while harder materials like rubber or plastic may be more suitable for older babies who have developed stronger hand-eye coordination.
• Sound and music: Some baby ball toys make sounds or music when played with. This can be a fun feature for your baby to enjoy, but it’s important to consider whether the sounds are loud or repetitive, as this could be overstimulating for your baby.
• Ease of use: Choose a baby ball toy that is easy for your baby to grasp and hold. Look for handles or other features that make it easier for your baby to hold onto the toy.
• Durability: Choose a baby ball toy that is durable and can withstand the rough play of a baby. Look for toys that are made with high-quality materials and have sturdy construction.

By considering these factors, you can choose a baby ball toy that is both age-appropriate and meets your baby’s individual needs and preferences.

Age-Appropriate Baby Ball Toys

When choosing a baby ball toy for your 10-month-old, it’s important to consider their developmental stage and abilities. Here are some guidelines to help you select an age-appropriate baby ball toy:

1. Size and Weight

At 10 months, your baby is likely still working on developing their grasping and holding skills. As such, it’s important to choose a baby ball toy that is lightweight and easy for them to hold. Look for toys that are designed specifically for younger babies, with soft, squeezable materials and larger handles or grips.

2. Texture and Sensory Stimulation

Your 10-month-old is also beginning to explore their sense of touch and develop their sensory abilities. Look for baby ball toys with different textures and materials, such as soft fabrics, bumpy surfaces, or crinkly sounds. These features can help stimulate your baby’s senses and encourage them to explore and play.

3. Easy to Manipulate

At this age, your baby is still learning how to manipulate objects with their hands and fingers. Choose a baby ball toy that is easy for them to grasp and move around. Look for toys with large, rounded edges and soft, pliable materials that can be easily grasped and squeezed.

4. Interactive Features

Your 10-month-old is starting to develop their social and cognitive skills, and is beginning to understand the concept of cause and effect. Look for baby ball toys with interactive features, such as rattles, squeakers, or hanging toys that can be activated by their movements. These features can help encourage your baby’s curiosity and exploration, and provide them with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

5. Durability and Safety

Finally, it’s important to choose a baby ball toy that is durable and safe for your baby. Look for toys made from high-quality, non-toxic materials that can withstand the rough play of a young child. Avoid toys with small parts or pieces that can be easily removed or swallowed, and ensure that any toys with strings or cords are securely fastened to prevent any accidents.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose an age-appropriate baby ball toy that will help promote your 10-month-old’s motor skills development and provide them with hours of fun and engagement.

Introducing Baby Ball Toys to Your 10-Month-Old

Safety Precautions

When introducing baby ball toys to your 10-month-old, it is important to take certain safety precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

• Supervision: Always supervise your child when they are playing with baby ball toys. Make sure they are in a safe and secure environment, and that they cannot access the toys without your supervision.
• Age-appropriate toys: Make sure the baby ball toys you purchase are appropriate for your child’s age and developmental stage. Toys that are designed for younger children will typically have larger, softer balls and simpler designs that are easier for small hands to grasp and manipulate.
• Material safety: Check the materials used to make the baby ball toys to ensure they are safe and non-toxic. Avoid toys that contain small parts, such as buttons or beads, that can be easily swallowed or aspirated.
• Inspect for damage: Before each use, inspect the baby ball toys for any signs of damage, such as tears or punctures. Discard any toys that show signs of wear or damage.
• Storage: Store baby ball toys in a safe and secure location when not in use. Make sure they are out of reach of children to prevent accidental injury.

By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure that your 10-month-old has a safe and enjoyable experience playing with baby ball toys.

Tips for Introducing Baby Ball Toys

When introducing baby ball toys to your 10-month-old, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a safe and positive experience. Here are some tips to consider:

Choose the Right Size and Type of Ball

When selecting a baby ball toy, it’s important to choose one that is the right size and type for your child’s age and abilities. For 10-month-olds, soft, lightweight balls that are easy to grasp and hold are ideal. You should also avoid balls that have small parts or pieces that could be easily swallowed or aspirated.

Supervise Your Child at All Times

Baby ball toys can be a lot of fun, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. It’s important to supervise your child at all times when they are playing with a ball toy, especially if they are still learning how to hold and throw the ball.

Start with Simple Games and Activities

To help your child develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination, start with simple games and activities that involve rolling, catching, and throwing the ball. For example, you can roll the ball to your child and have them try to catch it, or you can sit on the floor and play a game of peek-a-boo with the ball.

Encourage Exploration and Play

Encouraging your child to explore and play with their baby ball toys is an important part of their development. Try to find new and creative ways to play with the ball, such as using it as a prop in a pretend game or incorporating it into a dance or music activity.

Gradually Increase Challenge and Complexity

As your child becomes more skilled and confident with their ball toy, you can gradually increase the challenge and complexity of the games and activities you play together. For example, you can introduce new ways to hold and throw the ball, or incorporate other toys or objects into the games.

By following these tips, you can help your 10-month-old develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination while having fun with their baby ball toys.

How to Encourage Your 10-Month-Old to Play with Baby Ball Toys

Positive Reinforcement

One effective way to encourage your 10-month-old to play with baby ball toys is through positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement involves providing your child with praise, rewards, or other forms of positive feedback when they engage in desired behaviors. Here are some ways you can use positive reinforcement to encourage your child to play with baby ball toys:

Provide Verbal Praise

One of the simplest ways to provide positive reinforcement is by giving your child verbal praise when they play with baby ball toys. When your child picks up a ball or kicks it, say something like “Great job!” or “You’re doing a fantastic job!” This will encourage your child to continue playing with the ball and will make them feel good about themselves.

Offer Rewards

Another way to use positive reinforcement is by offering rewards when your child plays with baby ball toys. This could be something as simple as a sticker or a small toy, or it could be something more substantial, like a special treat or outing. The key is to make the reward something that your child will look forward to and that will motivate them to keep playing with the ball.

Show Enthusiasm

Showing enthusiasm when your child plays with baby ball toys is another effective way to use positive reinforcement. When your child is playing with a ball, get down on their level and join in the fun. Show them how to throw and catch the ball, and make it a fun and interactive experience. Your child will feel like they have your full attention and will be more likely to continue playing with the ball.

Encourage Playtime

Finally, encourage playtime with baby ball toys by providing plenty of opportunities for your child to play with them. Set up a designated play area in your home where your child can play with their balls, and make sure that they have access to a variety of different types of balls to keep things interesting. By providing plenty of opportunities for play, you’ll make it more likely that your child will want to continue playing with baby ball toys.

Setting Up Play Sessions

Play sessions with baby ball toys should be structured to provide an engaging and stimulating environment for your 10-month-old. The following steps can help you set up play sessions that will encourage your child to develop their motor skills through play:

1. Choose a safe and open space: Select a room with enough space for your child to move around freely and safely. Make sure to remove any hazardous objects or items that could pose a risk to your child during playtime.
2. Arrange the toys: Set up the baby ball toys in a way that encourages your child to explore and interact with them. Place them in different heights and angles to stimulate your child’s curiosity and encourage them to reach, crawl, and grasp the toys.
3. Incorporate other toys: Introduce other toys alongside the baby ball toys to provide variety and encourage your child to use different motor skills. For example, you can place small balls or rattles inside the baby ball toys to encourage your child to manipulate the objects inside.
4. Engage in play: Join your child during playtime and engage in interactive play. Use the baby ball toys as a tool to facilitate communication and bonding with your child.
5. Offer verbal cues: Use verbal cues such as “pick up the ball” or “kick the ball” to encourage your child to use specific motor skills. This will help your child associate the words with the actions, enhancing their understanding of language and motor skills.
6. Be patient and consistent: Play sessions should be patient and consistent. Give your child time to explore and interact with the baby ball toys at their own pace. Repeat play sessions regularly to reinforce the learning process and help your child develop their motor skills.

Common Issues with Baby Ball Toys and How to Overcome Them

Frustration with the Toy

It is not uncommon for a 10-month-old baby to become frustrated when playing with a baby ball toy. This frustration can stem from a variety of factors, including the baby’s inability to grasp the ball, the ball rolling away, or the baby losing interest in the toy.

• Inability to grasp the ball: If the baby is not yet able to grasp the ball, they may become frustrated as they are unable to hold it or throw it. This is a normal part of development and it is important to remember that babies develop at different rates.
• The ball rolling away: Another cause of frustration is when the ball rolls away from the baby. This can be due to the baby’s lack of coordination or the ball being too heavy for them to hold. It is important to supervise the baby while they play with the ball and to provide a safe and secure playing area.
• Losing interest in the toy: Finally, the baby may become frustrated if they lose interest in the toy. This can happen if the toy becomes too familiar or if the baby becomes bored with it. To overcome this issue, it is important to provide a variety of toys and to rotate them regularly to keep the baby engaged.

It is important to remember that frustration is a normal part of the learning process and it is important to be patient and supportive of the baby as they develop their motor skills. With time and practice, the baby will become more proficient at playing with the ball and will likely become more engaged and interested in the toy.

Transitioning to Different Types of Toys

When your 10-month-old has mastered the basics of baby ball toys, it’s time to consider transitioning to different types of toys. While this can be an exciting milestone, it’s important to ensure that the transition is done smoothly and safely. Here are some tips on how to do it:

1. Gradual Transition

Start by introducing new toys slowly and gradually. Begin with simple shapes and objects and then progress to more complex toys. This will help your child adjust to the new toys and build confidence in their abilities.

2. Maintain Routine

Maintaining a consistent routine can help your child feel secure and confident in their environment. Continue to play with baby ball toys alongside the new toys to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.

3. Encourage Exploration

Encourage your child to explore the new toys by placing them in different parts of the room and watching their reactions. This will help your child develop curiosity and a sense of discovery.

4. Offer Choices

Give your child choices when it comes to selecting new toys. This will help them feel empowered and involved in the process.

5. Provide Variety

Provide a variety of new toys to keep your child engaged and interested. Rotate toys frequently to prevent boredom and stimulate curiosity.

6. Observe and Adjust

Observe your child’s behavior and adjust the transition process as needed. If your child becomes overwhelmed or distressed, take a step back and slow down the process.

By following these tips, you can help your 10-month-old transition to different types of toys smoothly and safely. This will help them develop motor skills, build confidence, and promote curiosity and exploration.

Safety Guidelines for Baby Ball Toys

Choosing Safe Baby Ball Toys

When it comes to selecting baby ball toys for your 10-month-old, safety should be your top priority. Here are some guidelines to help you choose safe and appropriate toys:

1. Look for age-appropriate labels: Make sure the toy is labeled for 10-month-olds or younger. Toys intended for older children may have small parts or other hazards that can pose a risk to your baby.
2. Choose soft, durable materials: Opt for toys made from soft, durable materials like rubber, plastic, or cloth. Avoid toys with hard, sharp edges or points, as they can cause injuries.
3. Avoid toys with small parts: Babies at this age may put everything in their mouths, so it’s best to avoid toys with small parts that can be easily swallowed or aspirated.
4. Check for choking hazards: Make sure the toy is larger than the opening of a toilet paper roll, as this is the maximum size of toy pieces that can fit through the throat and cause choking.
5. Look for toys with safety features: Choose toys with safety features like enclosures for batteries or removable parts that are small enough to prevent choking.
6. Avoid toys with long strings or cords: These can pose a strangulation hazard to your baby.
7. Consider the weight and size of the toy: Choose toys that are lightweight and easy for your baby to handle. Avoid toys that are too heavy or large for your baby to pick up or manipulate.

By following these guidelines, you can choose safe and appropriate baby ball toys that will help your 10-month-old develop motor skills while keeping them safe and healthy.

Monitoring Your 10-Month-Old’s Playtime

When it comes to baby ball toys, safety should always be the top priority. It is important to monitor your 10-month-old’s playtime with these toys to ensure that they are using them correctly and safely. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Always supervise your child when they are playing with baby ball toys. This will help you prevent any accidents or injuries that may occur.
• Make sure that the ball is the appropriate size for your child. A ball that is too small may pose a choking hazard, while a ball that is too large may be difficult for your child to handle.
• Check the ball for any defects or damage before allowing your child to play with it. Discard any ball that is damaged or has any signs of wear and tear.
• Keep the ball away from your child’s reach when they are not using it. This will help prevent any accidents or injuries that may occur when the ball is not being used.
• Encourage your child to play with the ball in a safe and controlled environment. This will help prevent any accidents or injuries that may occur when the ball is being used in an unpredictable environment.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable experience with baby ball toys.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Ball Toys for 10-Month-Olds

Q1: What are the best baby ball toys for 10-month-olds?

When it comes to selecting the best baby ball toys for your 10-month-old, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to ensure that the toy is safe and appropriate for your child’s age and developmental stage. Look for toys that are made from non-toxic materials and have no small parts that can be easily swallowed or aspirated.

Additionally, consider the size and weight of the ball. For younger babies, larger balls may be easier to grasp and manipulate. However, as your child grows and develops, they may prefer smaller, heavier balls that they can bounce or roll.

Some of the best baby ball toys for 10-month-olds include:

• Rubber or plastic balls with textured surfaces that provide tactile stimulation
• Soft, squishy balls that are easy to grasp and can be thrown or rolled
• Balls with rattles or other sounds that encourage your child to explore and discover
• Balls with different colors or patterns that help develop visual and cognitive skills

Ultimately, the best baby ball toy for your 10-month-old will depend on their individual needs and interests. It’s important to supervise your child during playtime and ensure that they are using the toy safely and appropriately.

Q2: How long should my 10-month-old play with baby ball toys?

As a parent, you may be wondering how long your 10-month-old should play with baby ball toys. While there is no hard and fast rule, experts generally recommend that babies between the ages of 10 and 12 months spend no more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time playing with any one toy. This includes baby ball toys.

However, it’s important to note that every baby is different and some may tire more quickly than others. If your 10-month-old seems to lose interest in the ball toy after just a few minutes, it may be best to give them a break and return to the toy later.

Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your 10-month-old is taking breaks from playing with baby ball toys to engage in other activities, such as napping, eating, and interacting with other people. This will help ensure that they are getting a well-rounded and balanced day of activities.

Overall, the key is to monitor your 10-month-old’s interest and energy levels while playing with baby ball toys and to ensure that they are taking regular breaks to engage in other activities.

Q3: How can I prevent my 10-month-old from getting bored with baby ball toys?

Baby ball toys are an excellent way to develop motor skills in your 10-month-old, but it’s essential to keep them engaged and interested. Here are some tips to prevent boredom:

1. Rotate toys: Instead of having a large collection of ball toys, rotate them frequently. This way, your child will always be excited to play with a new toy.
2. Add variations: Experiment with different sizes, shapes, and textures of balls. Some babies may prefer softer or more substantial balls, while others may enjoy bouncy or noisy balls.
3. Introduce new games: Try introducing new games and activities with the ball toys. For example, you can play “fetch” or “peek-a-boo” with the ball. This will keep your child engaged and excited to play.
4. Combine with other toys: Incorporate other toys with the ball toys. For instance, you can use a ball with a rattle or a ball with a mirror attachment. This will provide additional stimulation and entertainment for your child.
5. Create challenges: Introduce challenges to keep your child engaged. For example, you can place the ball in a basket or box and encourage your child to retrieve it. This will develop their problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.

By following these tips, you can prevent your 10-month-old from getting bored with baby ball toys and continue to develop their motor skills.

Q4: Are baby ball toys safe for my 10-month-old?

When it comes to selecting toys for your 10-month-old, safety should always be a top priority. Fortunately, baby ball toys are generally considered safe for this age group, as long as they are made from high-quality materials and designed with appropriate safety features.

One important factor to consider is the size of the ball. The ball should be large enough for your child to grasp and hold, but not so large that it poses a choking hazard. Look for balls that are designed specifically for infants and toddlers, with soft, rounded edges and no small parts that can come loose.

Another important consideration is the material used to make the ball. Look for balls made from non-toxic, BPA-free materials that are safe for your child to chew on and mouth. Avoid balls with glitter or other small decorative elements that could be easily ingested.

Additionally, consider the age recommendations on the packaging and follow them closely. Some baby ball toys are designed for older infants and toddlers, and may not be suitable for your 10-month-old.

Overall, when purchased from a reputable retailer and used as intended, baby ball toys can be a fun and safe way to help your 10-month-old develop their motor skills. Just be sure to prioritize safety and choose a ball that is appropriate for your child’s age and abilities.

Q5: What should I do if my 10-month-old starts to cry while playing with a baby ball toy?

It is not uncommon for a 10-month-old to become upset or even cry while playing with a baby ball toy. This may be due to a variety of reasons, such as frustration with their developing motor skills or simply feeling overwhelmed by the new toy. However, there are several steps you can take to help your child continue to develop their motor skills while also reducing their frustration and distress.

1. Start with a simple ball toy: If your child is struggling to manipulate the ball toy, try starting with a simpler option, such as a soft, inflatable ball or a ball with a textured surface. This can help your child gain confidence and build their skills gradually.
2. Supervise and offer support: It is important to supervise your child at all times when they are playing with a ball toy. Offer support and guidance as needed, and be prepared to take the toy away if your child becomes too upset.
3. Take breaks and try again later: If your child becomes overwhelmed or upset while playing with a ball toy, it may be helpful to take a break and try again later. This can help your child regain their focus and interest in the toy, and may also help them build their frustration tolerance.
4. Encourage and praise effort: It is important to encourage and praise your child’s efforts and progress, even if they are not yet able to successfully manipulate the ball toy. This can help build their confidence and motivation to continue practicing and developing their motor skills.

By following these steps, you can help your 10-month-old continue to develop their motor skills while also reducing their frustration and distress during playtime.

FAQs

1. What are the recommended motor skills for a 10-month-old baby?

At 10 months old, babies are in the process of developing their motor skills, which include reaching, grasping, crawling, and pulling themselves up. These skills are crucial for their physical development and will help them gain independence as they learn to explore their surroundings.

2. How can baby ball toys help in developing motor skills?

Baby ball toys are designed to promote motor skill development in infants. They are soft and lightweight, making them easy for babies to grasp and hold. The balls also have different textures and colors, which help stimulate visual development and hand-eye coordination. By rolling and throwing the ball, babies can improve their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

3. When is the best time to introduce baby ball toys to a 10-month-old?

It is recommended to introduce baby ball toys to a 10-month-old when they are developmentally ready to start exploring and interacting with toys. This is usually around the 10-month mark, but can vary depending on the individual baby’s developmental milestones. It is important to supervise the baby during playtime and ensure that the toy is age-appropriate and safe for the baby to use.

4. How can I encourage my 10-month-old to play with baby ball toys?

To encourage your 10-month-old to play with baby ball toys, you can start by holding the ball up and showing it to them. Then, let them grab the ball and try to hold it themselves. You can also roll the ball towards them and encourage them to reach out and grab it. You can also place the ball on the floor and encourage them to crawl towards it and pick it up. By making the play experience fun and engaging, your baby will be more likely to want to play with the toy.

5. Are baby ball toys safe for my 10-month-old to play with?

When choosing a baby ball toy, it is important to ensure that it is made from safe and non-toxic materials. Look for toys that are labeled as appropriate for babies and have no small parts that can be easily detached and swallowed. It is also important to supervise your baby during playtime and remove the toy if it becomes damaged or no longer safe for use.

HOW TO PLAY WITH YOUR 10 MONTH OLD | DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES & ACTIVITIES | WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW