Written and updated on December 22, 2023, by Kidzoot Team
1. Tummy Time
One of the most important newborn activities is tummy time. This helps strengthen baby’s neck, shoulder, and back muscles. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends babies get tummy time several times a day when they are awake, even from just a few minutes at a time working up to longer periods. Tummy time can be done on the floor or on parents’ chests. Lay baby on their tummy and watch them lift their head and push up on their arms. You can also put toys just out of reach in front of them to encourage them to lift their head to look.
Gently massaging baby’s body is soothing for them and has benefits. Massage can help with digestion, relieve gas, and promote bonding. Use light strokes on their arms, legs, back and gently rub their belly. Sing or talk to baby during massage time. You can also use lotion or oil if you prefer for added stimulation of their skin.
Giving baby a sponge bath in the sink or tub is not only for cleaning but also a fun activity. Use different textures like a washcloth or soft brush on their skin. Splash toys can be used once they are a bit older. Sing to baby during baths. You can also try floating toys in the water for them to watch once they are able to hold their head steady.
6. Reading Books
Even newborns enjoy looking at black and white or colorful pictures in books. Make eye contact with baby as you point to pictures and describe them. Board books with simple images work best. Change the tone and pace of your voice to keep them engaged. This helps with language development and bonding.
Play a variety of music styles for your baby and watch how they respond with their movements or facial expressions. Sing lullabies, children’s songs or play instrumental music. Use simple hand motions or props like rattles. Babies can recognize familiar melodies and voices from early on. Music stimulates brain development.
Once baby can lift their head well, a toy bar can be placed at the top of their crib or play area. This gives them toys to bat at and hold during supervised tummy time. Make sure toys are out of reach if left unattended. Rotate the toys to keep it interesting. Look for high contrast colors and textures.
9. Mirror Play on the Floor
Place baby on their back on a blanket and hold a mirror above them. Describe what they see and help them focus. Move the mirror slowly side to side. This develops tracking skills. You can also try placing the mirror at an angle for them to roll and look at. Always supervise during this activity.
Once baby can hold their head steady, try tummy time under an infant mobile. This provides visual stimulation for them to watch. Make sure the mobile is securely attached above their head space. Sing, talk or play music as they focus on the moving toys above. Rotate the toys on the mobile periodically.
Place baby on their back on a play gym or mat with hanging toys at different heights. This allows them to focus on and reach for toys to develop hand-eye coordination. Describe the toys and encourage grabbing. Rotate the toys weekly to maintain interest. Always supervise during play.
Babies enjoy exploring different textures. Try safe sensory play items like crinkly paper, fabric swatches, plastic links, foam shapes or rice in a bin. Guide their hands and describe the sensations. Change up the items to keep it novel. Always supervise during any sensory play.
Place baby on their tummy on a blanket and hold a mirror in front of them. Describe what they see and help them focus. Move the mirror slowly side to side so they follow with their eyes. This develops tracking skills. Always supervise during this activity.
High contrast black and white books with simple images help develop vision. Make eye contact as you point to pictures and describe them in different tones of voice. Prop books around baby for them to focus on independently too. Switch books regularly to maintain interest.
Provide rattles or crinkly toys for baby to grab and bat at during tummy time. As they develop, place the toys further away to encourage reaching. Describe the toys and their actions. Switch up the toys frequently. This supports motor skills.
19. Black and White Mobile
Hang a black and white mobile above baby’s crib or play space. The contrasting colors help develop vision as they follow the movement. Rotate the design of the mobile periodically. You can also try a mobile with mirrors or reflective surfaces.
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