How to Play with your Newborn

I can't believe this is the last post in this series, and I'm sure you can't believe how fast these twelve months have flown by. These activities focus more on discovery and self-led exploration. They're just challenging enough to keep your baby's attention, but not so difficult that they'll cause frustration and tears.

Isn’t it crazy how the days seem so long, yet the months seem to fly by? I bet you still remember the day you brought your baby home like it was yesterday. While your baby’s body visibly grows every day, her brain is also developing at lightning speed! Here are a few activities to keep your baby engaged for a while (with your nearby supervision, of course).

How do you keep a 10-month-old entertained and out of trouble for more than 5 seconds? Try these engaging and interactive activities that promote independent play and healthy development. If you missed them, be sure to check out other posts in the How to Play with Your Baby series.

Tired mama, these activities are for you. They involve common household items and require almost no effort to put together. Even better, these simple activities are great ways to bond with your child and help you baby practice emerging skills through play. No frustration here!

Is your tiny tot turning into the Energizer bunny? I’m sure it feels that way. With longer wake periods and a strong urge to move and explore, month 8 is chock full of motor development. This is a fun stage to be in since playtime really feels like playtime. Your baby is engaging more, and it’s easy to pique their interest at this age. Here are some activities you can try together this month!

Is your little one getting into everything these days? The closer babies get the one-year mark, the more they’re drawn to exploration. This month, we’ll focus on sensory activities to keep your baby entertained while helping them safely explore the environment. Read on for ideas on how to play with your seven-month-old.

By month six, you may be rocking Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on Prayer” as your theme song. That first year is a wonderfully wild ride, filled with ups and downs and constant changes. But at the halfway point, you and your baby are really finding a groove together. Now that your baby is more alert and active, play time has never been more fun – for both of you! Your little one can focus a little longer and has more skills in his toolbox, so he can fully engage in whatever activity in store for him. Need a little help in planning age-appropriate developmental games and activities? We’ve got you covered!

How to Play with your Baby | Month Five Even if you have always stayed home with your little one, things are different now since you can’t head to your city’s children’s museum, zoo, or favorite park. Your options may be limited to your home and backyard. So, this month’s “How to Play” post will focus on how to keep your baby intrigued and learning with common household supplies.

Learn all about four-month milestones and how you can use play to encourage your baby's skills and build their strength. Visit our blog for a full list of parenting resources.