One of the most important part of your child’s learning and growth is playing.
It shows how they explore their environment and practice developing skills which is bond with their guardian.
Playing time will increase based on the kind of developmental skills they are working within.
There are different methods to handling the stages of the children, below are steps to note on the handling methods.
STEP ONE
Sing a song for them as you pat them on the back while lying on your lap.
Benefits:
This method is great for developing and increasing their listening skills.
The baby will be delighted at hearing your voice and the tapping gives a soothing way of experience to the baby.
STEP TWO
Face the baby while making a eye contact, smile and chit-chat with them when they make sounds.
Benefits:
This helps the child to learn language and conversation skills and they’ll love the attention they get from you.
Making the eye contact shows the baby that you want to communicate with them and support learning.
STEP THREE
Hold a baby-safe object, such as a toy, a cloth, and move it towards the baby’s hand, encouraging them to touch and feel it.
Make sure to switch sides so they get to reach with both of their hands.
Benefits:
This helps to work on the baby's in opening their palms and also work on the closing of their fists.
STEP FOUR
Read and look at baby books together. Point to the objects, animals or plants on the pages and name them.
Benefits:
Making time to read together promotes bonding, language skills and visual development.
STEP FIVE
Turn things on and off such as lights, water taps, flashlights, radios, television and other devices. As you do so, say the words “on” and “off.”
Benefits:
This activities helps demonstrate cause and effect while teaching your baby new words.
STEP SIX
Go for a walk taking the baby along and talk about the things you see and noises you hear.
Benefits:
Going outdoors helps to expose your baby to new sights and sounds, helping them to develop their listening, visual and social skills.
STEP SEVEN
Let your baby move round your home on their own but monitor them to make sure they are safe.
This helps them to feel secure while they’re trying new things.
Benefits:
Allowing your baby to have supervised freedom helps them to build their independence and self-esteem.
STEP EIGHT
Give your baby commands to follow like “clap your hands!” and show them how to do it.
If they repeat the action, show your excitement and pride by smiling and praising them.
Benefits:
Practicing simple instructions helps your baby learn how to follow directions.
STEP NINE
When your baby points to an object, respond by mentioning the object.
Benefits:
By naming things that your baby is interested in, you are helping them to learn new words. Paying attention to things they point to also teaches them that their needs matter and helps to build their self-esteem.
Source: WHO
