Your Complete Guide To Baby Activities
This post is all about baby activities. We’ll talk about what you can do with your little one all day, when to start playing with your baby, and how certain activities can support your baby’s development.
Let me start by saying, mama, don’t stress over baby activities, take it day by day and trust your instincts. You will soon discover what your baby likes and needs. Besides, every little human is different and develops at their own pace. This post is written based on my own experience and should merely serve as inspiration.
What activities can you do with a baby?
I know it might seem like in the first few weeks and months all your baby does is eat, sleep, poop, and probably cry. However, there are definitely certain activities you can do to foster your child’s development as well as to keep yourself a little bit more sane and entertained.
For starters make sure to talk to your little one as much as possible. The most natural and easy way to do so is by narrating your day. Simply say out loud what you see, hear, and what it is that you’re doing. It is also never too early to start singing to your sweet baby.
You don’t need a bunch of expensive toys, especially for the first few months or even years. There are a bunch of things you can do for free or DIY activities you can create by using what you already have at home.
So don’t stress and don’t overthink it.
Another easy yet important activity is going out for walks, whether you’re baby-wearing or using a stroller. Again, it’s a super simple activity that’s beneficial for both, you and your kiddo.
What are the best activities for babies?
Here are some of my favorite baby activities by age:
- 24 Things To Do With A 3-Month-Old Baby
- 14 Things To Do With A 4-Month-Old Baby
- 20 Things to do with a 6-month-old
- 37 Things to do with a 16-month-old
Benefits of the most popular baby activities
Tummy Time
Tummy time helps your little one develop their motor skills, it strengthens your baby’s muscles and prepares them for sitting, crawling, and further down the line, walking. It’s a great way to bond with your little one and expose them to sensory play.
Singing
It’s said that babies prefer singing to talking and it’s definitely beneficial to them, even if you’re not the greatest singer. It will foster their speech development, it can relax them and it’s a fun way of connecting with your little one.
If everyone started off the day singing, just think how happy they’d be. – LAUREN MYRACLE
Talking
Even if it’s not the type of conversation you’re used to, talking to your baby is crucial for their development from the very beginning. You can simply narrate your day. In that way, you’ll never feel like you’re forcing it or that you have to come up with some intricate stories to tell them. You also don’t need to use a baby voice or make baby sounds.
By talking to them a lot, you will help your baby with the development of social, language, and communication skills. Besides, they love the sound of your voice and will feel connected to you.
Going out for walks
There are so many benefits of taking your baby out for a walk. From simply keeping them entertained and helping them explore the world, to helping them regulate their moods, calm down, and sleep. Nature walks can be both very stimulating and very calming. Plus, it’s a low-impact activity you can start incorporating into your daily life with your baby as soon as you feel ready for it yourself.
How do I interact with my 1-month-old baby?
The best way to interact with your newborn baby is by singing to them, talking to them, and responding to their cues, and sounds. Those little baby conversations are so funny and make for the sweetest memories.
Besides going out for walks, and dancing with your baby in your arms, you can also show them high-contrast baby images and practice tummy time daily. Other than that, don’t stress about coming up with special activities. All your baby really needs is your presence, love, food, and cuddles. And don’t forget to take care of yourself!
When should you start doing activities with your baby?
Well, the answer is pretty straightforward. You can start playing with your newborn baby as soon as you feel like it, so probably once you’re back home. That is if you gave birth at the hospital or a birthing center.
Take it easy and step by step.
Make sure you get enough rest and take care of yourself. Remember, that what your baby needs the most are your love and presence so go for baby activities that not only baby but you as well, are ready for.
Do I have to entertain my baby all the time?
You do not have to entertain your baby all the time. Every baby is different and you will soon discover what and when your little one needs. Besides, everything in this world is new for your little one. They’re exposed to new sounds, smells, people and objects all the time. They certainly need time to rest and process all the newness, the triggers, and the excitement.
