13 Ways To Play with Your Newborn

As a mom of three, I remember feeling both excitement and uncertainty when it came to playing with my newborn.

After all, they’re so tiny and fragile at that age! I distinctly recall the moment when I laid my firstborn on a soft play mat, and he looked up at me with those curious little eyes. I wanted to bond and engage with him but wasn’t entirely sure how to play.

Did gentle cooing count as playtime? Was I supposed to wave toys in front of his face? It took a little bit of research and experimentation, but soon, I found several playful activities that my newborn adored and that I cherished as well.

Now, looking back with a bit more confidence and experience, I’ve compiled 13 engaging ways you can play with your newborn.

Remember, play at this stage is less about toys and more about creating a loving bond through touch, sight, and sound.

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10 Ways To Play With Baby

1. Gentle Tummy Time

Even if they’re just a few weeks old, newborns can benefit from a little supervised tummy time to build neck and shoulder strength.

Start by placing your baby on a soft surface, like a plush tummy time mat. Make sure to join them at their level and cheer them on with smiles and encouraging words.

You can even use a colorful tummy time pillow to make it more engaging.

2. Sing Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes

Your baby’s favorite sound is your voice! Choose some of your favorite lullabies or nursery rhymes and sing to them.

Try adding a few hand motions to songs like “The Wheels on the Bus.” If you’re looking to expand your repertoire, consider downloading a few tracks or playing songs from a nursery rhyme music set.

3. High-Contrast Cards

Babies love black-and-white patterns because they’re easy for their developing eyes to process.

Place high-contrast flashcards in front of your baby during playtime. Move them slowly from side to side, and watch your little one’s eyes track the motion.

This helps with visual development and focus.

4. Baby Massage

After bath time or during a diaper change, try giving your baby a gentle massage. Use baby-safe massage oil to lightly rub their arms, legs, and back.

Your soothing touch will help calm them, and it’s a wonderful way to bond.

5. Mirror Play

Introduce your baby to their new best friend—themselves! Place a shatterproof baby mirror beside them during tummy time.

They’ll love staring at their own reflection, and you can make it even more engaging by pointing and talking about what they see.

6. Story Time

Even if your baby doesn’t understand the words yet, the sound of your voice reading a book is comforting.

Choose board books with bold, colorful images. The rhythm and tone of your voice will entertain them, and you’re laying the foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

7. Dance Together

Hold your baby close, put on some soft music, and gently sway around the room. The rhythm will soothe them, and the gentle motion is comforting.

If you want to add a little extra fun, try using a baby wrap carrier so they feel snug and secure as you dance.

8. Peek-a-Boo

Classic peek-a-boo never goes out of style! Simply hide your face behind your hands or a soft muslin blanket, and then pop out with a big smile.

Your baby might not laugh yet, but they’ll enjoy watching you “disappear” and reappear.

9. Follow the Toy

Choose a brightly colored rattle or plush toy and slowly move it in front of your baby’s face, encouraging them to follow it with their eyes.

This simple game helps develop their visual tracking and focus.

10. Baby Gym Time

Invest in a baby activity gym with dangling toys. As they bat at the hanging objects, your newborn will start to improve their hand-eye coordination. And don’t forget to interact with them as they play—your words and smiles are just as important as the toys.

11. Talking and Cooing

It might feel a bit silly at first, but engaging in a “conversation” with your newborn helps them learn about the rhythm of speech. Coo, babble, and imitate their sounds. You can even use a gentle baby rattle to keep their attention as you talk.

12. Texture Exploration

Introduce your baby to different textures by gently brushing their hands and feet with items like a soft feather, a silk scarf, or a textured cloth book. Talk about what they might be feeling and see if they show any preferences.

13. Bath Time Splashing

Turn bath time into playtime by letting your baby gently splash in the water. Use a safe bath toy set to add a bit of fun. The sensation of the water on their skin, combined with your joyful laughter, will make for an engaging play session.

Bottom Line

When it comes to newborn play, the key is to keep it simple and always prioritize safety. These early weeks are less about what you’re playing and more about how you’re connecting.

So, whether it’s a sweet little massage or a silly game of peek-a-boo, know that you’re building a bond that will last a lifetime.

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