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
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often discussed in the context of its more visible symptoms, but it’s crucial to recognize that the condition can manifest differently, particularly in females. Historically, autism has been under-diagnosed in girls, leading to a gap in understanding and support. Here’s why autism may be missed in females and how we can better address these discrepancies.
Understanding and addressing missed autism in females requires a shift in perspective and increased awareness. By recognizing the unique ways autism can present in girls and taking proactive steps to support them, we can ensure that all individuals receive the care and understanding they deserve.
If you have concerns about a potential missed diagnosis or need specialized support, reach out to Bright SpOT. Our team is dedicated to providing the expertise and personalized care needed to support each child’s unique journey.
Warm regards,Caitlin Sanschagrin, OTR
Occupational Therapist, Bright SpOT
Choosing the right pediatric therapist for your child is a significant and personal decision that can greatly impact your child’s development and well-being. Whether your child requires occupational therapy, speech therapy, or any other form of therapeutic support, finding the ideal therapist match can take time and multiple consultations with different providers. It is important to keep in mind that finding the right therapist can be similar to dating - the therapist may be a great person and good at their job and yet they still might not be the best match for your child/family. In this blog post, we'll explore important factors to keep in mind in order to help you make an informed choice for your child's unique needs.
Does the Therapist Listen to Your Concerns?
One of the first signs of a great therapist is their ability to listen to, and have genuine interest in. your concerns. You can begin to gauge this by having a short consult (either in person or on the phone) prior to the initial evaluation. Typically there is extensive dialogue during the initial evaluation, when your child will first be formally working with the therapist. Consider if the therapist is attempting to understand your concerns and from where they are rooted rather than excessively suggesting - or even imposing - their own goals and milestones. Occasionally, therapists can get “stuck” on what they think a child “should” be doing rather than focusing on the reason families are seeking therapy. For example, you might come into an occupational therapy (OT) evaluation for difficulty managing emotions/behavior and the therapist focuses on fine motor and handwriting differences. During your initial meetings, consider whether the therapist takes the time to understand your child's barriers, your family's goals, and your specific worries. A therapist who listens openly and attentively can tailor their approach to address your child's individual needs effectively.
Does the Therapist Try to Build a Genuine Relationship with Your Child?
Building a genuine and trusting relationship with your child is essential for successful therapy. Watch for signs that the therapist is skilled at connecting with your child on a personal level. They should create a safe and supportive environment where your child feels comfortable and valued, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. It is important to keep in mind that your child is most likely going to be addressing difficult and even sensitive issues while in therapy. In order for them to get the most out of therapy, they must feel safe enough to do so. If a child never builds a relationship with their therapist, they will not be getting the maximum therapeutic benefit that they deserve.
Does Your Therapist Feel Comfortable Being Questioned or Receiving Feedback?
Effective communication between you, your child, and the therapist is vital. A therapist who welcomes questions, feedback, and collaboration is more likely to provide personalized and effective care. Don't hesitate to voice your concerns or ask for clarification during the therapy process. If you find the therapist is uncomfortable when being asked to clarify or even justify their explanations/therapeutic approaches, that is concerning. No one person knows everything, no matter the profession. Therapists best serve their patients when they come from a place of wanting to learn and understand regardless of how long they have been practicing.
Does the Therapist Use Individualized Treatment Activities/Strategies?
Every child is unique, and their therapy should reflect their individual needs. A skilled therapist customizes treatment activities and strategies to address your child's specific challenges and goals. Look for a therapist who tailors their approach to your child’s strengths and interests while working on their barriers to success.
Does the Therapist Give You "Homework"?
Supporting your child's progress outside of therapy sessions is crucial for long-term success. A therapist who assigns "homework" or suggests activities for you to practice with your child at home is invested in their progress and understands the importance of caregiver buy-in and consistency for generalization of skills. This approach empowers you to contribute to your child's development actively.
Does the Therapist Make You and Your Child Feel Valued?
Last but not least, a great therapist should make both you and your child feel valued and respected. They should demonstrate empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to your child's well-being. A therapist who acknowledges your efforts as a parent and the strengths of your child creates a positive and empowering therapeutic experience.
Choosing the right therapist for your child involves careful consideration of these key factors. The ideal therapist will listen to your concerns, establish a genuine rapport with your child, encourage questions and feedback, tailor treatment strategies, provide opportunities for at-home practice, and, most importantly, make you and your child feel valued and supported throughout the therapeutic journey. By prioritizing these aspects, you can ensure that your child receives the high-quality care they deserve.
