The First Year

Article courtesy of Dr. Perisa

It may seem like almost daily that your adorable little one will be developing new skills and absorbing so much more of the world around them. Where before they may have been fully occupied and happy simply lying on an activity mat, their developing mind will require more to hold their attention so it’s important to find developmentally appropriate ways to stimulate their young minds. While play with your little bundle of joy will not only be enjoyable for you, but it will also help your child continue working towards meeting the developmental milestones. Here are a few examples of some play you can utilize with your baby:

Early play can be as simple reacting to your baby with a smile. Responding to your baby’s smile with a smile helps with development of some socialemotional skills where they are learning to gain your attention and a reaction, simply by smiling.

Another great simple, early form of play is merely reciprocating your baby’s cooing and babbling sounds, showing them some of earliest skills needed for later conversation and vocal turn-taking

Encourage supervised tummy time play to allow your child to experience the world from different vantage points while they continue strengthening the neck and trunk muscles they will need for later siting up, eating, walking, etc. Mirrors are another fun way for your baby see themselves working on their skills and expose them to the various facial expressions in their current repertoire

Peek-a-boo helps them work through object permeance. This can also include hiding a toy behind your back or under a blanket and having them search it out Dive into the numerous variety of sensory experiences available to you. Let them sit outside in the grass, play in a sand box, try to catch bubbles, dip their toes in a kitty pool or play in the bathtub (with close supervision of course)

As your child gets older and more mobile, it’s essential to make sure that their play is happening in a safe environment and your home is baby proofed as much as possible.

This includes:

Having properly installed baby gates at designated locations around stairs

Having cleaning supplies and medications stored out of reach and in babyproof cabinets

Ensuring heavy furniture (television, bookshelves, dressers, and the like) are properly mounted and/or secured to the wall

The floors and play area are clear of small objects possibly posing a choking hazard

Covering all electrical outlets

Consider locking or having babyproof doorknob covers on all exterior, basement, and bathroom doors

Using cordless blinds

Consider corner bumpers or covers on any pointed or hard surfaces

Tune in July 18th at 8 PM EST for more on these and other topics focusing on how to support your child during their first year of life.