Newborn babies aged 0-3 months are in the early stages of development and require simple and sensory-rich play experiences to help them learn and grow. Here are 10 play ideas for bubs in their 'fourth trimester', and some baby toy ideas to get you started:
1. Tummy Time: Tummy time is important for building neck and upper body strength. Place your baby on their tummy for short periods each day while they are awake and supervised. You can engage with them by getting down on the floor and talking to them or showing them colorful toys.
Pictured: Our tiny human enjoying tummy time with a black and white book
2. High-Contrast Toys: Babies' vision is still developing, and they are most responsive to high-contrast colors like black and white. You can use black and white toys, books or even fabric with bold patterns to capture their attention.
Pictured: More tummy time fun with a high contrast book
3. Soft Mobiles: Hang a soft and simple mobile above the crib or changing table. Babies enjoy looking at moving objects, and a mobile can provide visual stimulation.
Pictured: Our colourful Gobbi mobiles and high contrast black and white Munari mobile
4. Face-to-Face Interaction: Spend quality time talking to, smiling at, and making eye contact with your baby. They are learning to recognize faces and voices, and interaction with caregivers is vital for their emotional and social development.
5. Gentle Touch: Babies are comforted by touch. Provide gentle massages or strokes on their arms, legs, and back. You can also try different textures like a soft fabric or a feather for them to feel.
6. Rattles and Grasping Toys: Offer simple rattles or toys designed for grasping. Babies are beginning to develop their hand-eye coordination and will enjoy exploring different textures and shapes with their hands.
Pictured: Our wooden rattle with a bell
Pictured: Our wooden ring with rainbow ribbons
7. Singing and Music: Sing lullabies or gentle songs to your baby. Music can be soothing and comforting. You can also play soft music or nature sounds in the background.
8. Mirror Play: Babies are often fascinated by their reflection in a baby-safe mirror. Place a mirror in a safe and supervised space for your baby to look at themselves.
Pictured: a slightly bigger baby enjoying some mirror play time with our Acrylic Mirror.
9. Story Time: While they may not understand the words, reading to your baby introduces them to language and the rhythm of speech. Choose board books with simple, colorful pictures.
10. Explore Nature: Going for a stroll to a local park with your baby allows them to breathe in fresh air which can be beneficial for their respiratory health, it is also a fantastic sensory experience with different scents, sound, the warm sensation of the sun or a gentle breeze.
Pictured: A 2mo little human exploring grandma's garden
Remember that safety is crucial at this age. Always keep a close eye on your baby during playtime, and make sure that any toys or objects within their reach are safe and free of small parts that could be a choking hazard. Enjoy these early moments with your baby, and cherish the bonding and learning experiences you share together.
Happy playing!