Early childhood interactions are an integral part in ensuring little ones start to reach their developmental milestones if all else is also developing in a typical fashion. Playing with your newborn is not only a delightful experience but also a crucial aspect of their development. Newborns may seem too young to engage in play as we typically understand it, but they are remarkably receptive to sensory experiences and social interactions. Here's a guide on how to effectively and lovingly play with your newborn, fostering their growth and strengthening your bond.
Newborns are in a stage of rapid development. While their physical abilities are limited, their sensory and emotional capacities are burgeoning. Play at this stage is less about physical activities and more about stimulating their senses and building emotional connections.
Here are some key aspects of newborn play:
Sensory Stimulation: Newborns learn about the world through their senses. They respond to sights, sounds, touch, and even smells.
Social Interaction: Newborns thrive on social interaction. They are naturally drawn to faces and voices, especially those of their parents.
Repetition and Routine: Repetition helps newborns learn and feel secure. Routine interactions build a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Engaging in Sensory Play
1. Visual Stimulation
Face-to-Face Time: Hold your newborn close and let them study your face. Babies are fascinated by faces, particularly the eyes and mouth. Making eye contact and smiling at your baby helps them learn to recognise and respond to social cues.
High-Contrast Images: Newborns see high-contrast colours (black, white, and red) better than pastels. Use books, toys, or cards with simple, high-contrast patterns to capture their attention.
2. Auditory Stimulation
Talking and Singing: Talk to your newborn often. Describe your activities, sing lullabies, or read aloud. Your voice is soothing and familiar, providing comfort and security.
Music and Sounds: Play soft music or nature sounds. You can also use rattles or soft toys that make gentle noises. These auditory experiences help develop your baby’s listening skills and auditory pathways.
3. Tactile Stimulation
Gentle Touch: Use soft, gentle strokes to massage your baby’s arms, legs, and back. This not only soothes them but also helps in developing their tactile awareness.
Texture Exploration: Introduce your baby to different textures using soft toys, blankets, or fabrics. Allow them to feel a variety of materials, such as plush toys, silky blankets, or textured books.
Encouraging Social Interaction
1. Mirroring and Mimicking
Imitate Their Sounds: When your baby coos or makes sounds, mimic them. This back-and-forth exchange is the foundation of early communication and language development.
Facial Expressions: Exaggerate your facial expressions. Newborns are particularly attuned to emotional expressions, and they enjoy watching and eventually imitating them.
2. Physical Closeness
Skin-to-Skin Contact: Hold your baby against your skin. This practice, often referred to as "kangaroo care," promotes bonding, regulates their body temperature, and stabilises their heart rate.
Cuddling and Holding: Spend time holding and cuddling your baby. The warmth and security of your embrace provide comfort and reassurance.
Creating a Routine
1. Consistent Playtimes
Regular Interaction: Engage in play at consistent times each day, such as after feeding or during diaper changes. This routine helps your baby anticipate and enjoy these moments.
Short Sessions: Newborns have short attention spans. Aim for brief, frequent play sessions rather than extended periods of interaction.
2. Calm Environment
Reduce Overstimulation: Ensure the play environment is calm and not overly stimulating. Too much noise or activity can overwhelm a newborn.
Comfortable Space: Create a comfortable, safe space for play, such as a soft blanket on the floor or a cozy chair where you can hold your baby.
Playing with your newborn can be a joyful and essential part of their early development. By focusing on sensory stimulation, social interaction, and creating a consistent routine, you lay the groundwork for your baby’s cognitive, emotional, and physical growth. Remember, these early moments of play are not just about entertainment; they are opportunities to nurture a deep, loving bond that will support your child’s development for years to come.
If you or a loved one are struggling to connect with your baby please call us for further support. Our highly trained psychologists can help. Please call our team on 9882-8874 to book in with one of our team members today. Alternatively fill in our contact form here to get in touch.
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This blog was written and prepared by Dr Celin Gelgec – Clinic Director and Clinical Psychologist at Melbourne Wellbeing Group.