Learning Through Play for 0-6 months

A child's first year of life is filled with so many developmental changes. In their first months, babies explore with their eyes, ears, hands, feet, and mouth. Playing with your infant does so much more than keep your baby happy and entertained. Any time you engage your baby in a fun experience, whether its singing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" or Peek-a-boo, I see you!” you're demonstrating an activity that will be essential to his growth and overall development.

1. Peek-a-Boo

There's nothing like the game of Peek-a-Boo to help the child begin to see himself as a separate individual. It also makes babies laugh! Once the baby is familiar with this game, you can move on to "Where's Mommy?" Begin by placing your hands over your face, just as you would with Peek-a- Boo. Later, hide your whole self behind a piece of furniture, asking, "Where's Mommy?" You then pop up, answering, "Here's Mommy!"

2. Visual Tracking

Provide your baby with bright, colorful objects to watch. Finger puppets or a brightly colored sock placed on your hand can be used to gain and keep the baby's attention. Then slowly move your hand up and down, in circles, and to the right and left.

3. Funny Faces

Infants love to look at human faces and eyes, bright primary colors, and simple designs.
You can capitalize on that interest by choosing a time when your baby isn't hungry or tired, and positioning him so he's looking directly at you. Then make some faces! Try a smile, a big, open mouth, raised eyebrows, or a stuck-out tongue.

4. Give Your Baby the Floor

Floor time gives your baby a chance to develop and practice new skills such as rolling over, getting on his hands and knees, and sitting up. Make sure that the floor or ground is soft enough so that he won't hurt himself when he plops down face first. Putting your baby down on a quilt or a thick blanket can soften a hard floor or tightly packed earth.

5. Eye Hand Coordination

Let your baby discover that his or her actions can make things happen. Provide toys that will move or make sounds when your infant manipulates them, such as baby musical instruments, busy boxes, or see-through toys that show motion.