"FOSTERING LOVE FOR CARE THROUGH MONTESSORI LEARNINGS"

10 engaging play ideas for babies

10 engaging play ideas for babies

Babies are constantly exploring the world around them. As parents, we can encourage their development and learning by providing them with simple, low-cost or free play opportunities.

Here are 10 engaging play ideas for your baby:

1.Mirror play

Babies love to look at themselves in the mirror. It’s also a great way to help them develop self-awareness. Simply hold your baby in front of any mirror around your home and let them explore their own reflection. You can also name their different facial and body parts.

2.Music play

Listening to music is a wonderful way to stimulate your baby’s mind and help them develop language skills. Simply play music on your phone, computer or any other device. You can also sing along with the music to help them learn new words. Another great idea is to make instruments for your child to play using items around the house, such as pots, pans and wooden spoons. Alternatively, buy some simple musical instruments specifically made for babies.

3.Touch play

Babies are fascinated by tactile experiences. You can provide this type of stimulation by letting your baby touch and feel different items—such as soft fabrics, feathers or even crumpled paper—and seeing how they react.

4.Movement play

Babies love to move. Movement play is a fun way to help them develop gross motor skills while burning off some energy. Encourage movement by providing toys that your baby can push or pull. You can also hold your baby in your arms and dance around the room or place them on their back and let them kick their legs or wave their arms.

5.Water play

Water play is a great way to help your baby cool down on hot days while helping to develop their sense of touch and movement. Fill up a small kiddie pool, basin or container with some water and let your baby splash around. You can also add some plastic balls or toys for even more fun. Just make sure that the water is not too deep and that you always supervise your baby.

6.Light play

Babies are fascinated by light. Light play is a great way to help them learn about cause and effect. It also helps your baby develop their sense of sight. All you need is a small flashlight. Shine the light on different surfaces and see how your baby reacts. You can also use different coloured lights for added fun.

7.Sound play

Babies are born with a keen sense of hearing. Sound play is a great way to help them learn about the world around them. Make different noises with your mouth, clap your hands or bang on a drum. You can also play recordings of nature sounds or children’s songs. Let your baby explore different sounds and see how they react.

8.Visual play

Babies love to look at bright colours and simple patterns. You can help them develop their visual skills by hanging pictures or mobiles in their nursery or reading colourful, age-appropriate books to them.

9.Shadow play

Shadows are captivating for babies and can provide hours of entertainment. You can create shadows on the wall using your hands, household objects or even flashlights. Try making different shapes or forming animals and enjoy your baby’s delight.

10.Taste play

Once your baby has started solids at around 6 months of age, offer your baby different foods and let them explore the textures and tastes, from sweet to savoury to tart. Choose safe, non-toxic foods that don’t pose a choking hazard.

These are just a few ideas for simple, low-cost play activities you can try with your baby. Each one helps stimulate your baby’s mind and encourages their development. So, get creative and have fun!

Looking for more engaging activity ideas for babies? Get in touch with us today.

Cranbourne

16 Monahans Road Cranbourne, VIC 3977
03 5906 8700
1800 954 563

Watsonia

125 Watsonia Road
Watsonia, VIC 3087
03 9432 6565
1800 954 563

Wyndham Vale

2 Gallaxus Avenue Wyndham Vale
03 9125 5260
1800 954 563

Narre Warren

6-8 Meadow Wood Walk Narre Warren, Victoria 3805
03 8527 2772
1800 954 563

Epping

(Opening Mid/Late 2025)
26A Hayston Boulevard Epping Victoria 3076
1800 954 563