Many malls are open early to allow walkers to exercise in a safe, temperature-controlled environment. Plan a mommy and me stroll at the mall. As you exercise, give your baby a book or toy to play with, or a snack to eat. Let the babies talk to one another while you enjoy some adult conversation.
Make the most of this outing to introduce your baby to unfamiliar adults and children, while letting him know that you are still there. This is a great time for him to learn to calm himself outside of the home. He will begin to understand communication rules and how language sounds. He will become aware of new surroundings and begin to explore new objects by coordinating his eyes and hands to work together.
Find a gym that offers a mommy and me class. The teacher will lead the class in songs, finger plays, and tumbling activities. Enjoy this special bonding time with your child and meet other families with children around the same age.
Participating in this activity will show your child that you are still part of his life, but also let him meet new people. He will gain independence as he builds his vocabulary and communication skills. He will learn that things happen on a schedule, and he can control the movements of his body.
Going on errands with a baby isn’t always easy, but make the most of it by talking to your child about what you are doing. Keep him calm by giving him a favorite blanky or stuffed animal to hold while you check tasks off your list. When you see people you know, such as dry cleaner or store clerk, introduce your baby to them.
This activity will teach your child to engage with you and unfamiliar adults. He will begin to understand the rules of communication and to recognize different sounds in his language. He will explore new places and things as he becomes familiar with new routines. He will learn to control his hand to keep himself occupied.