Playtime with a newborn looks very different from playtime with a toddler or even a baby that's 6 months old. Newborns have just come into the world, don't yet understand the world around them, and have only basic cognitive abilities. But just like children of any age, newborns can engage in playtime with the people around them, provided the 'play' is curated and age-appropriate for their physical and cognitive abilities.

Elements of Playtime with a Newborn

• Tummy Time: One of the most popular forms of playtime with a newborn is tummy time. Tummy time helps to strengthen your little one's neck muscles and encourages them to move around and eventually roll over. It's typically recommended for your newborn to get 15-30 minutes of tummy time per day by the time they are seven weeks old, though those minutes can be broken up into shorter sessions throughout the day. Whether you place your baby on a blanket, activity mat, or other firm surface on the floor, you can make tummy time more entertaining by mixing in other forms of playtime to keep your baby entertained. For example, try talking or singing to your baby from different areas around them to encourage them to turn their head towards you. You may also use some of their favorite toys and move them around to encourage your little one to move their head.
• Visual Stimulation: When babies are first born, their eyesight is still developing. Showing them simple images with high-contrast colors is best at this age. One great option for visual stimulation is the high-contrast cards provided in the Curious Baby Cards set. Reading books with your infant is also a good way to combine visual and vocal stimulation.
• Vocal Stimulation: One of the best ways to increase cognitive development in your infant is to talk to them. They've likely heard your voice since even before they were born, so maintaining that communication between the two of you is vital to their development. Whether you're singing, telling a story, reading a book, or simply talking about your day, your child is constantly making neural connections by listening to what you're saying.
• Gentle Touch: What's better than cuddling a baby? Not much. Lucky for parents and caretakers, cuddling your baby, rubbing their back, and stroking their skin are all ways that you can help your baby learn about their own body. There's nothing cuter than when a baby 'discovers' their own toes. Spending time helping your child learn about the different parts of their body is an easy way to help their cognitive development daily. Additionally, gentle infant massage can help your baby with digestion, restful sleep, and even a stronger immune system.
• Texture Exploration: Newborns are coming into contact with the world for the first time. Even simple things that may not occur to you as an adult, like soft cloths with different textures, can function as playtime entertainment for your baby.
• Movement/Rhythm: Rocking in a rocking chair or bouncing your baby are typically thought of as ways to put your little guy or girl to sleep, but they're also great ways to play when your infant is wide awake. Moving around, swaying, bouncing, and gentle and safe rocking/bouncing are great ways to play and encourage your little one to learn about movement and spatial awareness.
• Face-to-face Time: One of the most common ways newborns experience playtime is by observing their caretakers' faces. Whether you're making funny faces, smiling, or laughing, your baby is taking note of your expressions and may even try to match those expressions after a time.

What Are The Best Toys for Newborn Playtime?

Toys for playtime with your infant don't need to be complicated. In fact, there are many ways to play with your baby without any toys at all. If you do decide you want to utilize toys in playtime with your baby, consider simple items like rattles, teethers, high-contrast cards or books, mirrors, and toys that make music or light up. If you're looking for ways to play using items you already have at home, check out Curious Baby Cards. Our cards offer simple, engaging activities to support your baby's development while strengthening your bond - all using everyday household items.

What to Keep in Mind About Newborn Playtime

While playtime is a big part of your little one's development, remember babies don't need to be played with or entertained constantly. Between naps, feedings, and diaper changes, playtime will likely take place in short sessions throughout the day.

Keep playtime simple. You don't need to invest in the newest, most expensive toys for your child to properly experience playtime. Simple objects like soft cloths, small stuffed toys, and even your face or hand are enough for your infant during playtime.

Most importantly, remember playtime is a way for you and your child to continue to foster a connection. It's about playing with your newborn. Ensuring playtime is fun and stress-free for both of you is the best way to maintain a positive playtime relationship with your child.