Stimulation for your Baby

In the first weeks following your baby’s birth you will probably just want, and need, to rest! But here’s a list of items that I have found invaluable for providing comfort or stimulation for my baby in the first six months…

Mobile bouncer

I have a very active son who loves being held upright so every morning when I have my breakfast he gets a go in the bouncer! He spends most his time exploring the items in front of him on the bouncer. Some recommend no longer than 30 minutes a day on a bouncer and you should never leave your child alone on such a device.

Play-mat

There are plenty of colourful play-mats to choose from. These mats are invaluable for encouraging your baby with tummy time. They also create a fun and visually stimulating space in the room for you and your child to play in.

A mobile gym

This has been a fantastic purchase for my little one. I have watched as he has gone from a two week old flailing his legs and arms randomly to a six month old reaching out for particular items to examine.

Books

Your baby is not too young to enjoy hearing a story. In fact, hearing stories from an early age can help language acquisition. There is a great range of ‘baby touch’ books out there. These books are great for the little one to join in with the reading in an interactive way!

A book of nursery rhymes

When my husband brought a book of nursery rhymes back home and I opened the pages, memories came flooding back! Babies love to hear rhymes so their concentration span will develop as you encourage their language acquisition.

Textiles

You can buy preassembled bags of items of varied texture. Dipping in will encourage your baby’s sense of touch.

A Mobile

As well as providing the feel good factor to any nursery, a cot mobile is another form of stimulation for your baby. My son loves hearing the music as he watches the little animals rotate round!

Toy Teether

My son has several teethers but his favourite is a toy giraffe. He can bite all over her body and then have a really good chew on her feet. As she doubles up as a squeaky toy she is a reassuring asset!

Alphabet blocks

Whilst my son hasn’t quite got round to spelling his name yet, his alphabet blocks are a great way to engage Dad in adult family play, leaving messages spelt out on the mat!