5 Ways to Play with Your Newborn

newborn baby laying on back on a soft fur blanket with hands fisted near mouth; eyes and mouth open looking intently off camera

In the first weeks, it can be hard for new parents to know what to do with their baby.

Of course, there's a whole lot we’re doing TO our babies - feeding and diapering and soothing, but there will be brief moments in most days when baby is awake and fed, diapered and calm. This is your opportunity to play WITH your newborn, friends!

You may be at a loss for what to do with your tiny squishy newborn during these times - I’m here to help! As an OT, I totally geek out on all the development that's taking place behind that baby stare and within those baby wiggles. So let’s get you excited to witness your baby's development unfolding through 5 creative ways to play!

5 CREATIVE WAYS TO PLAY WITH YOUR NEWBORN:

Rub & Clap

Face to face play stimulates bonding and supports language and social development in this simple tactile (touch) sensory play for newborns.
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Head Turning Play

Watch baby work towards their very first motor milestone and discover how this activity helps prevent common infant head shape and neck muscle concerns (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis).
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Kicking play

Observe your baby stretch and strengthen out of their curled up womb position through active play. You may be amazed how soon you’ll notice baby’s reflexive kicking become intentional!
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Black & White Picture Cards

Download free black and white picture cards perfectly matched to your newborn’s developing vision and start playing with these simple activities.
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Water Play

See how your baby plays with the natural sensations of water in these Tummy Time and on the back play ideas.
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Reflection:

Many parents wonder if they’re “doing enough” to support development. And while I provide lots of fun ways to interact with and observe your baby, I also encourage you to bring awareness to the beliefs or assumptions you have about baby milestones and development:

Do you believe that your baby will need help to achieve milestones?
What do you assume your baby’s developmental trajectory will be if you do very few “enrichment” activities? If you do a lot?
When you imagine a parent who is “doing enough” to support development, what do you envision them doing? How will you know if you’re “doing enough?”

Wish you knew how to play with your new baby like a developmental expert?

Is your creativity zapped by sleep deprivation? Do you struggle to know what to do with your baby to promote healthy development? Here's your expert guide - featuring 45 simple ways to play with your infant plus how they can make your little one smarter and stronger.

What other parents are saying:

"A must-own for new parents. Easy and creative activities for playing with your baby."

"A super fun book that my daughter and I have enjoyed trying activities from every day. I only wish I would have ordered it sooner!"

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