For babies at the age of 4 to 6 months, learning and play are crucial for them. It doesn't require expensive educational toys or a lot of effort to capture your baby's attention.
You can promote baby development by following activities:Talk to your baby. Ask your baby questions and respond to their babbling. Describe what you see and hear around the house, outdoors, and when you go out. Use simple words like "baby," "cat," "go," "hot," and "cold," and remember that your voice and facial expressions can convey thoughts and emotions.
Play music. Music can help calm, entertain and educate your baby. Sing or play a lullaby, a cheerful nursery rhyme, or your own favorite song.
Change posture. Let your baby lie on his or her tummy for a few minutes under supervision. Many babies enjoy practicing their newly acquired rolling skills, and they may roll over quickly. Get a colorful toy or make sounds to encourage your baby to lift their head or practice rolling over. When your baby is lying down, hold your baby's hand and say, "Are you ready to stand up? Let's try it!" Count to three and gently pull your baby to a standing position. When your baby is ready, try sitting. Support your baby or use pillows for support.
Provide simple toys. Babies this age often enjoy colorful toys, especially those that make noises. Try musical toys, mirrors, and rattles with handles. To help your baby focus, take out only one or two toys at a time. Place toys out of reach to encourage your baby to stretch and crawl. Shake the rattle behind the baby's head and ask the baby to turn around and grab it. Your baby may also like to watch his or her own movements in the mirror.
Tell your baby a story. Telling stories to your baby can promote the development of language and thinking. Most babies will become immersed in the words you read and may even imitate the sounds you make. Start with books with bright colors and large pictures. Describe what happens on each page. Point to common objects and name them. You can make storytelling a part of your baby's bedtime routine.
Play their favorite games. Cover your face with your hands, then move your hands away and say, "Peek-a-boo, I see you!" Play a clapping game. Ask, "Where are your toes?" Then touch your child's toes and say, "Your toes are here!" Hide one of your baby's toys in the corner of the blanket and encourage your baby to find it.
Take some time to hold your baby. Balance time with new activities with plenty of quiet time. Gentle caresses and gentle kisses can help your baby feel safe, secure and loved. You hold or rock your baby while you talk quietly or sing a soothing song.
Understand your baby's personality. Start paying attention to your baby's reactions to new toys, people, or situations. Understanding your baby's behavioral style (personality) can help you reduce stress.