Standing, pointing, and first words. Here are 5 activities to try.
Give baby a container and small safe objects (big blocks, scarves). They'll love putting things in and dumping them out — over and over. This is serious cognitive work.
Materials: Container, Large blocks or soft objects
Sit facing baby and roll a soft ball toward them. Encourage them to push it back. This simple game teaches turn-taking, tracking, and coordination.
Materials: Soft ball
Arrange furniture so baby can cruise (walk holding on) from one piece to the next. Place a favorite toy at the end as motivation. Builds leg strength and confidence.
Materials: Stable furniture
Wave to baby and say 'bye-bye' every time someone leaves. Do it with toys too. Social gestures are an important bridge between understanding and speaking.
Set out pots, wooden spoons, and plastic containers. Let baby bang away! They're exploring cause and effect, rhythm, and volume control (well, mostly volume).
Materials: Pots, pans, wooden spoons
Always adapt activities to your child's age and developmental stage. Supervise all play. Check that materials and toys are age-appropriate and free of choking hazards.
