Welcoming a newborn into your family is a magical time, and play is a key part of nurturing your baby’s early development. Engaging with your little one through playful activities not only fosters their growth but also strengthens your bond. Here are five expert-backed ways to play with your newborn that support their sensory, motor, and emotional development.
Tummy time is essential for building your newborn’s strength and motor skills. It helps develop neck, shoulder, and upper body muscles, which are crucial for later milestones like crawling and walking.
How to Play: Gently place your baby on their tummy on a soft surface like a blanket or play mat. Keep the sessions short initially, gradually increasing as your baby gets accustomed to it. Place colorful toys or a soft mirror in front of them to encourage reaching and head lifting.
Benefits: Tummy time enhances muscle development, promotes head control, and stimulates sensory exploration.
Introducing a variety of textures can be incredibly stimulating for your baby’s sense of touch and helps them learn about their environment. Crinkle paper is a coveted favorite (with added auditory stimulation)!
How to Play: Use soft, textured fabrics such as a plush blanket or textured toys. Gently rub different materials on their hands and feet, or let them explore with their fingers and toes.
Benefits: This activity enhances tactile sensitivity, supports fine motor skills, and aids in sensory integration.
Face-to-face play is crucial for developing your baby’s social and emotional skills. It helps build a strong connection and supports their ability to recognize and respond to social cues.
How to Play: Hold your baby close and engage with them through expressive facial gestures and varied vocal tones. Smile, make eye contact, and respond to their coos and gurgles.
Benefits: Encourages emotional bonding, social engagement, and recognition of facial expressions and vocal tones.
Gentle rocking or rhythmic movement can be soothing for your newborn and supports their vestibular system, which is essential for balance and coordination.
How to Play: Rock your baby gently in your arms, or use a baby swing for rhythmic movement. Singing or softly talking to them during these moments can add to the calming effect.
Benefits: Enhances sensory integration, provides soothing comfort, and supports motor development.
Newborns are naturally drawn to high-contrast visuals, which can captivate their attention and promote visual tracking.
How to Play: Use toys or books with bold, high-contrast patterns. Hang a black-and-white mobile or a contrasting visual stimulus above their crib or play area.
Benefits: Supports visual perception, focus, and tracking skills, essential for cognitive development.
Playing with your newborn is more than just a joyful activity; it’s a crucial part of their early development. Incorporating these playful interactions into your daily routine can help your baby grow stronger, more engaged, and socially connected.
For more personalized guidance on how to support your newborn’s development through play, the team at Bright SpOT is here to assist. Our skilled occupational and speech therapists can offer tailored advice and strategies to help your baby thrive during these formative months.
Caitlin Sanschagrin, OTR
Occupational Therapist, Bright SpOT
