Some very informative studies have recently been published and the findings might surprise you. Studies were conducted comparing electronic toys to more conventional toys such as blocks, puzzles, and wooden tools and they found that adults were less responsive to children when the children were playing with electronic toys than other toys. The studies...
We applaud the first roll over, video the first step, and record the first words in baby books, but what about the first time your baby creeps across the floor? This is perhaps the most important developmental milestone, but definitely the most unappreciated. It is sometimes regarded as a nuisance milestone because the baby...
A great way to build those neuron connections in the brain is to allow your baby to feel different textures against her skin. Our skin is our largest organ and it has a large representation in the brain, so by stimulating your baby’s sense of touch with lots of different textures, you are stimulating...
Suddenly he’s apprehensive about strangers! And even some family members. What changed? This is actually a sign of healthy development. He is learning that he is independent of you. While this is an exciting cognitive milestone because he now understands the difference between you and a stranger, it can also bring some tears. She has...
Play is great fun, but structured play teaches your baby about the world and it is a great way for your baby to learn some early STEM skills. Object Permanence Games: Play peek a boo Hide toys under blanket or scarves and help your baby find them Play with toys that hide such as...
The baby sign trend has been picking up steam over the past 20 years and is used in a lot of childcare centers and by parents alike. It makes great sense as their fine motor skills are developing ahead of their oral motor skills and they can use their hands to express themselves before they...
Tips for reading to your baby: Engage him in the book by singing the words. Get on his level so you are face to face while reading. Use expression and different voices and make faces while you read. You don’t have to read the words. You can describe the pictures. Ask him questions while you...
The muscles and coordination for functional sitting and crawling don’t always come naturally. Most babies need a little bit of exercise to get these skills down. Try this simple activity with a physio-ball or large beach ball: Work on some trunk rotation activities to build core strength through the oblique muscles: Practice pulling those little...
STEM skills really take off as your baby’s fine motor skills continue to refine and they can use their little hands to explore. The ability to move each finger separately and bring the thumb and first two fingers together is also a huge stride in your baby’s ability to have some independence. Now she is able to manipulate...
While you are talking to your baby, incorporate some movement. This helps him link two senses together, makes the language and communication more engaging, and is great for the development of hearing and body awareness. We love wrist rattles and bootie rattles for cause and effect, body awareness, movement, and linking two senses together. Talk...
