Newborn play and learning: in a nutshell

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Play for a newborn is a gentle affair. At this age, a baby is easily tired and may only be able to manage a few minutes of stimulation at a time. Playtime is about slowly discovering the world and trying out his different senses on the objects around him. Everything is new so there's no need to rush in the beeping, flashing toys.

Your newborn’s play can be as simple as tummy time on a mat, touching a textured soft toy or watching a mobile slowly turn. You are your baby’s most important play buddy and she will look to you for guidance about what's okay and safe to try out.

Play ideas for your newborn

• Funny faces: Make different faces at her, smile, laugh, roll your eyes and wave your hands gently. She will be fascinated and may even try to imitate you.
• Peek-a-boo: This simple game of ‘now you see me, now you don’t’ is an enjoyable spectator sport for your newborn. In months to come, she will learn to play it with you.
• Singing: Your newborn loves the sound of your voice and your songs can help her brain develop. You can sing to her during nappy changes, in the car and at bathtime. You may want to make up your own songs about whatever you are doing. Or brush up on some classic songs in Baby Karaoke.
• Toys:Simple toys allow a newborn to exercise their sense of touch. Try soft toys or a rattle made of various textures, like crinkly fabric, satin and velvet. By touching and feeling things, your baby finds out more about her world. Just be sure your toys are safe for newborns and clean – that way you won't have to worry if they end up in her mouth!
• Talk: You may not always have time to stop and play for a few minutes. Chatting to your baby about whatever you are doing (running the bath, cooking dinner) not only keeps her entertained but can start laying the foundations for language development.

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  Newsletter snippet: Newborn play and learning: in a nutshell
  

   

  By Raising Children Network

  Your newborn needs just a few minutes of playtime each day. Newborns are easily tired so playtime needs to be gentle. It’s all about exploring different senses and discovering the world around them.
  
  Play ideas

  • Make funny faces – your baby might even try to copy your efforts.
  • Play peek-a-boo – your baby will enjoy watching.
  • Sing to your baby – the sound of your voice is your baby’s favourite thing, and songs can assist brain development.
  • Introduce baby-safe soft toys made from different fabrics – touching helps your baby learn about the world.
  • Chat to your baby – talking together can help lay the foundations for language development.

  This article is an extract only. For more information visit raisingchildren.net.au/play__learning/newborns_play_learning.html

  Sourced from the Raising Children Network's comprehensive and quality-assured Australian parenting website www.raisingchildren.net.au.