Infant Kids Games

Although it may appear that an infant spends all his time eating and sleeping, his brain is hard at work. Throughout the first year of a baby's life, the brain doubles in size, forming connections based on sensory experiences. Parents can nurture brain development by providing sensory stimulation through talking, singing and playing with their infant. Use games to strengthen muscles, bond and have fun with your baby.

  1. Baby Sit-Ups

    • Develop core muscles needed for walking by performing baby sit-ups. Lay baby on his back on the floor, then pull him up by his hands. Pull slowly and gently, and be cautious not to jerk baby's neck and head. Support baby in a seated position for a few minutes, then lower him back down and repeat, if your baby is still interested.

    Tummy Time

    • Place baby on her tummy for a few minutes each day, gradually working up to 15 minutes. Use a blanket or mat between the baby and the floor. Place colorful toys and blocks or books in baby's view. Get down on the floor with her and play peek-a-boo or sing and talk to her to make this time more enjoyable.

    Fly, Baby, Fly

    • Play this game once your baby can lift his head up. Lay on your back on the floor or bed. Lift your baby up above you, holding him under his arms or around his midriff. Slowly and gently "fly" him back and forth, side to side or up and down. Dip his head, then his feet, moving him in all directions. Smile, laugh, sing and kiss him to make this a fun, relaxing game.

    Massage

    • Massaging your baby can help her wind down at the end of the day or it can just be a quiet moment of relaxation with mom or dad. Before beginning, equip a warm area with a towel, massage oil, pajamas or clothes for afterward. Undress baby, apply a little oil to your palms and rub palms together. Then, gently stroke baby's chest, arms, legs and feet. Apply gently pressure, make eye contact with her and stop if she becomes fussy.

    Happy Face, Sad Face

    • Create a happy and sad face on a paper plate by drawing a smiley face on one side and a face with a frown on the other, with a thick black marker. To play, hold the plate about eight to 10 inches in front of baby's face. Once he is focused on the face, move it slowly from side to side or up and down to practice tracking. Then, turn the plate around to the other side to see baby's reaction.

    Get a Whiff of This

    • Entice baby's sense of smell by introducing new scents and telling her what they are. Do not introduce more than one or two at a time and do not repeat any that she turns away from. Scents to try are flowers, coffee beans, soap, vanilla, cinnamon, lotions and shampoos.

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