Baby development activities

[Hann376]

How do you know what activities to do with your baby to help them meet their milestones ?

I feel like I’m so uninformed and I have no idea how to entertain my baby and what activities to do with them while I’m on maternity leave.

i feel like I’m the worst mum in the world as although I did antenatal classes I didn’t read any books about how to be a parent like what activities to do and things. I feel like baby is just not gonna meet his milestones at all while I’m taking care of him because I have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing

my baby is almost 6 months and not rolling even though I’ve done lots of tummy time as advised by health visitor. Am I just missing something m supposed to be doing?

Take them to parent/baby groups, swimming, out for walks. Talking and reading to them , listening to music, toys with wheels, balls, tactile toys?

Thanks I do these but it’s when I’m at home I have no idea how to play or talk to him lol

My daughter is 10 months old now and I have always just kept an eye on her milestones and incorporated toys/play that can help with meeting them, or encourage baby to try and meet them.

So rolling for example we did lots of side lying play, both of us on our side facing each other chatting, holding toys above her and then popping it to the side of her to encourage her to roll to grab it, lots of practicing the rolling motion so holding their leg and placing it across the body to encourage a roll, playing at getting the momentum up to roll. Tummy time also helps a lot with rolling practice, strengthening the neck/tummy/arms for holding themselves etc.

Thank you did you use any specific resources / websites to know what activities to do?

You don't have to do very much. Just chat to her, go about your normal life and she basically tags along. Read books to her. Smile at her and engage with her. Sing little songs.

That's pretty much it.

BBC Tiny Happy People has ideas! Does your local council or child and family centre run a play group? They have good suggestions. But honestly, what your baby needs most is your company and for you just to tell them about your day or whatever you are doing while they watch.

All of this. Babies all get there when they are ready. I wasted so much time doing all the things I “should” have been doing with DD; the baby classes, groups that made me feel judged and lonely, buying the toys. I’m expecting baby number 2 at the moment and this time I’m going to be so much more relaxed about all of these things because I do not know an adult (disability aside) that is unable to bring a spoon to their mouth, or sip from a cup, or talk. Your baby is learning just by accompanying you going about your day. Just smile and sing nursery rhymes and talk to your baby like they are your little mate. It’s plenty.
And watch the episode of Bluey called “baby race”. I feel like you need to see it.