Infant Stimulation Activity 57: mirrors

Fasten an unbreakable mirror to the side of your baby's crib or swing or high chair. Introduce her to her beautiful face by pointing at her reflection. Touch her nose, stroke her hair, tap her ears, naming each part as you touch it. Use the mirror for fun interaction between you and your baby, then also allow baby some time on her own to focus on her reflection, track movement, and explore the wonderful things her face can do.

Infant Stimulation Activity 56: pretend face painting

Pretend face painting is a great stimulation activity to do with you infant. You can use a very soft small dry paint brush or even just your finger to "paint" on his face, hands, and feet. The touch will feel wonderful to your baby.

Feel free to incorporate language such as "This is your nose," "This is your hand," "This is your big toe." Or to really emphasize the touch (and tactical sensation) don't say anything at all.

Infant Stimulation Activity 55: peek-a-boo

Peek-a-boo may seem like a simple game; okay, it is a simple game. But there is more than a simple benefit to babies of all ages.

For infants (babies 0-6 months) it is a wonderful and fun interaction. Your infant has the opportunity to study your face, watch your facial expressions, and listen to your voice.

From 6-9 months, babies will have a greater attention span and therefore enjoy the simulation that much more. She may be surprised or startled during the game, so be sure to smile and show that you are having fun.

At 9 months babies are just beginning to understand object permanence, even if he can’t see you, you are still there. This is important because baby is learning to trust that when you are gone (even for a few seconds) you come back.

Eventually of course this game becomes a two-way street and your baby will try to grab at your hands and even begin covering her own eyes.

Infant Stimulation Activity 54: make some music

You may have heard about playing music for your baby, but how about making music? Tap out a rhythm on a drum, jingle some bells, or play a simple tune on the piano. See what effect different instruments and different tunes have on your baby.

And do not feel limited by any lack of instruments in your home - put some beans in a plastic container, get a spoon and a pot, or ring some chimes.

Infant Stimulation Activity 53: mimic

Not only is it important to converse with your baby so he can learn language, intonation, and pitch (see infant stimulation activity 31) but it is just as important to encourage the sounds he is already making. To do this simply mimic his sounds. When you are both relaxed, happy, and ready for some fun, repeat a sound he is making, especially those that are common to your language. For example, if your baby says "ma ma" then you should look happy by smiling and clapping, and then you should repeat "ma ma." Your baby will understand that making those sounds makes you happy. He will therefore be more likely to continue to repeat them.

Infant Stimulation Activity 52: animal sounds

More new sounds for baby! How fun!
Pair animal sounds with pictures from a book or flashcards, toy animals, or even the real thing!

Like pastel-colored turkeys?

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY from Babysmartees