As your baby begins to get sleepy, snuggle with him and his favorite stuffed animal or blanket. Softly sing him some lullabies and talk to him – in a whispery voice – about all of the fun you had together during the day.
Your baby will love this special time with you and she will begin to learn to express herself, show interest in a familiar adult, and become attached to you. She will begin to respond to words and to understand sounds are used to communicate. She will begin to understand that things happen at certain times of the day and to control her hands.
Place your baby on his belly on the floor in a safe area. Stay close by, but let him do some exploring of his surroundings. Place soft toys and books within his reach. Talk to him about what he is doing as he plays. “Do you like that green frog? A frog says, “Ribbit.”
This activity will help your child learn to express himself in a variety of environments, calm himself, and show interest in a familiar adult. Listening to your speech will help him respond to sounds and begin to understand how communication works. He will learn to be aware of his environment and that his actions cause other things to happen. Also, he is learning to coordinate his movements to move his body.
Invite another baby over for a play date. Place both babies on floor – next to each other or laying face to face on their bellies. Introduce different toys to them and play soft, classical music to keep them calm. Enjoy listening to them babble to one another.
Allowing your baby to enjoy another baby’s company in the comfort of your home will teach your child to express emotion, show interest in adults and other children and grow her attachment to you. She will recognize the sounds of language and build her vocabulary. She will explore different ways that she can make things happen, and how to use her body to do so.