7 playtime dos and don’ts
You’re never too young (or old!) for playing. Here are some ways you can both enjoy fun-filled, safe, and stimulating daily activities that set your baby up for an active, healthy life.
[✓] Do... give her lots of stimulation and activity during the day
Whether she’s reaching out for your face, wriggling while you sing a song, or smiling at a noisy toy, stimulation and movement are important. And remember that the more activity and stimulation she gets during the day, the more she may sleep at night.
[⨯] Don’t... ever leave your baby unsupervised
Never leave your baby alone while she’s playing, even for a moment. Always keep her in your sight to make sure she’s safe.
[✓] Do... give her plenty of space
You don’t need to send your baby to an exercise class or other outside program to be sure she gets the daily activity she needs. All she needs is a bit of space to freely move her arms and legs while she’s on her back. This (along with tummy time) will help build the muscles and motor skills she needs for future sitting and crawling.
[⨯] Don’t... use infant seats or bouncers for long periods of time
If you do use infant swing seats or bouncers, limit the amount of time your baby spends in them. She needs space to wriggle, kick, and move around for healthy development.
[✓] Do... provide daily tummy time for play
Spending time on her tummy can help your little one build strong muscles and develop the motor skills she’ll need to eventually sit up, eat solid food, and crawl. Daily tummy time can also help prevent a flattening of the back her head – a condition related to a baby being on her back for extended periods of time during the first few months.
[⨯] Don’t... put your baby to sleep on her tummy
For safety reasons, babies should always sleep on their backs. This will reduce your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
[✓] Do.... keep your baby within arm’s reach
As well as constantly watching your baby, make sure she’s not able to slip or fall off high surfaces such as her changing table. If she’s on a high surface and you need to fetch something, such as a diaper, carry her with you or place her on the floor (still in sight).
[⨯] Don’t.... let her play near dangerous objects
She may not be able to crawl yet, but babies have an uncanny ability to seek out danger in a room. Check carefully that there is nothing within her reach that could be hazardous.
[✓] Do.... play several times a day, every day
Brief and often is the key to happy playtimes. You may find she’s only engaged in playing for a short while, but don’t give up and think it’s over for today. She might be in the mood for another brief playtime after a feeding, nap, rest, or diaper change.
[⨯] Don’t... continue playtime when she’s tired or hungry
Playtime can happen at any time of the day and last as long as she’s interested. Don’t set aside a block of time for ‘play’ and expect her to always engage and stay interested. If she’s getting fussy, she might be tired or hungry so let her set the pace.
[✓] Do... interact to get your baby moving
What makes your baby giggle, squeal, and wave her arms and legs in delight? Whether it’s peekaboo or gentle tickling, do something that makes your baby move.
[⨯] Don’t... worry about looking silly (it’s all part of the fun)
It might not come naturally at first, but making funny faces or singing silly songs is all part of the joy of being a parent. You’re enjoying precious playtime and helping your baby’s healthy development too.
[✓] Do... go outside
When the weather is nice, find a shady spot to lay your baby down on a blanket so she can feel the wind and hear outdoor sounds. She may enjoy looking around at all the new things in this different environment.
[⨯] Don’t... lie in the sun
If you do go outside on a sunny day, keep your baby in the shade. Babies’ skin is more sensitive than ours. A hat will help protect her face but remember that the sun’s rays can reach your baby even on a cloudy day. If you’re unsure, ask your healthcare provider for advice on staying safe in the sun.
Sources
https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/1081-tips-on-playing-with-babies-and-toddlers (Accessed December 29 2016)
http://journal.naeyc.org/btj/200605/NASPEGuidelinesBTJ.pdf (Accessed December 29 2016)
Last revised: November, 2016
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