6 Smart Ways to Stimulate Baby's Mind
When baby gets bored with their toys, it’s so easy to pop in a cartoon and let the TV work its magic. Babies get hypnotized by the screen for one simple reason: Animation. The colors, sounds and movement really engage and stimulate little ones. But—while it’s okay to do from time to time when you desperately need a break—the American Academy of Pediatrics generally recommends keeping baby screen-free until at least 18 months.
So what’s a parent to do? Add a little animation into playtime. By playing to baby’s senses, you can entertain and educate them—no screens necessary! Need some ideas to get you started? Here are some guaranteed crowd pleasers:
Babies love music, so give your playtime a soundtrack. Turn everyday activities into a sing-along by making up fun songs while you’re setting out lunch, folding laundry or cleaning. The more you change the tone and pitch of your voice, the better.
Whether you’re into classical music or The Beatles, listening to music has been linked to better aptitude in math. So play a variety of pleasing rhythms and melodies to stimulate baby and you’ll be on the right track to raising a pint-size genius who can really groove!
Take baby grocery shopping (preferably when the market isn’t too crowded!). The colors and new faces are great stimulation and an interesting change of scenery from your house. Plus, you can cross another item off your to-do list.
It’s never too early to read to baby. The best storytellers use lots of voice inflections and tone changes. Hey, baby’s the only one watching, so why not go for it and have some fun?
Find blocks in fun shapes, sizes, colors and even textures—or bring out the pots and pans and let baby channel their inner rock star. You don’t need the most expensive toys when baby is content to play with things you can find around the house.
But not just any walk—stroll near a park or lake to let baby see new things in nature. Fill the walks with the sound of your voice. Chat with your little one throughout your stroll, pointing things out and engaging baby in your surroundings.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
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