Fun & games
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Your baby’s first year of life is an exciting time full of discoveries and new experiences. Playing is not just entertainment; it also supports your child’s motor, cognitive, and social development. Here you’ll learn how to support your baby’s development through playful activities.
Playing in the first month of life
- Closeness and voices: Newborns love to hear your voice and look at your face.
- Gentle touches: Cuddles and gentle massages strengthen the bond and body awareness.
- Black-and-white patterns: High-contrast images or mobiles stimulate perception.
Play ideas for babies aged 2 to 6 months
- Grasping toys: Soft rattles, teething rings, and fabric balls promote hand-eye coordination.
- Songs and finger games: Repetitive melodies and movements support language comprehension.
- Mirrors: Babies find their own reflection fascinating and start exploring basic facial expressions.
- Tummy-time training: Short play sessions on the tummy strengthen the neck and back muscles.
Play ideas for babies aged 6 to 12 months
- Crawling games: Promotes motor development through crawling courses with cushions and blankets.
- Stacking and sorting: Building blocks or stacking cups develop fine motor skills.
- Peekaboo games: Simple "peek-a-boo" play promotes understanding of object permanence.
- First musical instruments: Rattles, drums, or xylophones spark interest in sounds.
Shared Activities
- Walks: New impressions in the fresh air stimulate the senses.
- Water Games: A warm bath with floating toys brings joy and relaxation.
- Reading Aloud: Even if your baby doesn’t understand what you’re saying yet, they enjoy your voice and the colorful pictures.
- Cuddle Time: Closeness and physical contact are essential for emotional development.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. We accept no liability for any consequences that may result from following the recommendations provided here. If you have any doubts or specific questions, please consult your pediatrician or an early childhood development specialist.
Last update: 30. January 2025
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