Monday, September 24, 2007
37 days Playtime
Playtime ~ NewbornYou are your baby's first and best "toy". Being with you is pleasurable--looking at your face, feeling your warmth and comfort, hearing your voice, and recognizing your scent are all opportunities for your baby to get to know you. So play lots together and enjoy getting acquainted. A few simple toys are all you need during these first months as your baby begins to focus and notice the world around her. A rattle, some plastic rings, a hanging mobile--all begin to attract her attention.After a few months, you'll be able to play more actively with your baby. Try dancing in a circle to your favorite music. Or move her gently through the air like an airplane. Find ways of moving together that you both enjoy.
How to Help Your Young Baby Learn
Sensations During the first three months of life, babies experience a world of sensations. They use their senses of sight, hearing, smell and touch. Here are some things you can do to help!Place baby on different soft and pleasant textures - silky satin, nubby wool, soft flannel, fluffy toy.
Softly blow on baby's hands, feet and tummy during play. Talk to baby about what you are doing.
Slowly rock baby in your arms several times each day. Always touch, hold and move gently. You can't hold your baby too much.
Hold baby close while you sing, dance, rock, read or talk.
Respond to baby's needs as quickly as possible. This way you help baby trust, feel safe and be confident.
Help baby observe different faces. Smile at baby and use her name. Play peek-a-boo as you hide behind a paper plate or blanket.
Strength-building Activities Your baby's muscles only grow strong when he or she uses them. Here are some ways by which you can help your baby gain strength.
When on his tummy, encourage baby to look toward a variety of soft sounds - your voice, music, a rattle, a bell, singing.
When changing a diaper, gently move baby's legs like pedaling a bicycle. Talk softly or sing at the same time while making eye contact.
After bathing baby, gently bring baby's hands together. Help patty cake, or kiss the hands while talking or singing.
Give baby things he can safely put in his mouth and hands to learn about the shape and feel of things. Make sure the objects are large enough that they aren't a choking hazard.
Milestones By the end of three months, your baby should be able to:
Raise head slightly when lying on stomach
Say a vowel-consonant combinations (ah, uh, eh)
Recognize a bottle or breast
Watch objects move slightly from one side to another.
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