Security: give it to your newborn

Give your newborn the greatest sense of security you can. When your baby cries she needs something from you.

At first you will question what she needs: is it time to eat, is she hungry, does she need her diaper changed, does she have gas and need to be burped? But never underestimate the simple need for comfort. This little baby is dependent on you for everything including warmth, love, and security.

Stimulate her with as much warmth, love and security as you can. Yes, pick her up when she cries. Soothe her. Show her that she is secure and she is loved. You will never regret these actions.

Infant Stimulation Activity: the power of a cuddle

Hold you infant in your arms. Rock her gently and whisper "I love you."

Research shows that infants who are cuddled, snuggled, and held actually grow up to be more secure and independent.

Naturally you will be holding, rocking, and snuggling your baby, but make this an actual 15 minute infant stimulation activity as often as you like . . . (every day?!)

Reminder: Key Principles of Infant Stimulation

Infant stimulation activities are fun, important, and influential to your baby’s development. However, these are not exercises in quantity but quality. Baby will benefit most when he is paying attention, therefore, when he is able to pay attention. He shouldn’t be crying, squirming, kicking, or sleepy when you decide to begin stimulation activities.

It is likely that baby is most attentive following his nap. Probably the best indicator as to whether it is a good time to begin interactive stimulation is that your baby is responding to the stimulation. Once he is no longer paying attention, begins to look away, concentrate more on his pacifier, or in any way shows distress (eg crying) it is time to stop.

Now how about you? How are you feeling? Yes, this is just as important! You should always be happy when interacting with your baby. It is okay to skip stimulation activities if you are not up to it. If you are in a bad mood or tired it is actually better to skip the activities for the day. Your baby will still learn many things today, he will still be stimulated, and he will still love you. Take a break and come back tomorrow!

Autumn Equinox

Wordless Wednesday

Infant Stimulation Activity: just touch

Present your baby with experiences that foster learning and growth. The best way for your infant to learn is by holding him and playing with him. The interaction is the thing!

Start with TOUCH, or tactile stimulation. Stroke you newborn often. Caress him across the forehead, down his cheek, across his neck, down his arm, and into his hand – repeat for the other side. Then bring him in for a cuddle.

Have you seen the new Babysmartees website? It is new and improved although the basics are still the same: Infant stimulation is the interaction between you and your baby and Babysmartees t-shirts were made to enhance your baby's visual stimulation.

Check out the new Babysmartees website (http://www.babysmartees.com/)

See the Top Ten Reasons for Infant Stimulation

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