During the hustle and bustle that is the life of new parents, it is important to spend some time each day playing with your new baby. Play time is not only an opportunity to develop a bond between you and your little one; it is also an important part of helping your baby’s physical, intellectual, social and emotional development.

Babies often learn kinesthetically. This means that touch is one of the best learning tools for your baby. You can give your baby a variety of materials to feel, with different textures and weights. A fuzzy blanket, a cuddly toy, a shower scrubber, or a bumpy teething right can help stimulate your baby’s touch sense.

Movement is another way you can play with your baby. In addition to patty-cake, you can bounce him on your knee, rock him in a chair, and massage his back or belly.

There are a variety of exercises that you can do with your baby, as well. You can lay your baby down, and hold onto both of her hands. Gently pull her up and say things like “uppie” or “here we go!” to encourage her.

You can use squeaky toys to get your baby’s attention. Move them slowly in and out of your baby’s field of vision. This will also help strengthen his optical muscles.

Pick a time for play when your baby is alert and relaxed. If he is hungry and tired, he may not be able to play, or may not enjoy play time (and neither will you!)

During the early months of your baby’s life, a lot of the games you play with your baby will be face-to-face. You will be facing her, talking to her, singing to her, making noises with her. She will follow you, learning as she goes. As she gets older and is more able to control her movements, she will become more active in playing with you. She will be able to respond to your movements with movements, and respond to your sounds with sounds.

There are also a variety of toys available that you can use to play with your baby. Make sure that you choose age-appropriate toys to get the most enjoyment and biggest benefit.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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