Babies need to move in order to learn! Here are several activities that promote motor and cognitive development and deepen the bond between Baby and you.

You can encourage rolling over by providing a little incentive. While Baby is lying on his back, sit behind him, holding a small toy over his head. Once you have Baby's attention, move the toy very slowly to one side, all the while encouraging him to get it. If Baby rolls over, present him with the toy. You can then repeat the game on the other side.

Provide your baby with bright, colorful objects to watch. Finger puppets or a brightly colored sock placed on your hand can be used to gain and keep Baby's attention.

Slowly move your hand up and down, in circles, and to the right and left. Blow bubbles for Baby to watch. When Baby is old enough, encourage her to reach for the bubbles or any other object of desire you place above her.

Body awareness is essential for babies. Sing and demonstrate Where Is Thumbkin? Play games such as This Little Piggy with both toes and fingers. Touch her nose, exclaiming, "I've got your nose!" Then proceed to play the game with other body parts such as toes, ears, fingers and legs. When Baby is developmentally ready, ask her to find your nose, ears, mouth, etc.

There's nothing like the game of peek-a-boo to help the child begin to see himself as a separate individual. It also makes babies laugh! Once Baby is familiar with this game, you can move on to "Where's Mommy (Daddy, Nana, etc.)?" Begin by placing your hands over your face, just as you would with peek-a-boo. Later, hide your whole self behind a piece of furniture, asking, "Where's Mommy?" Then pop up, answering, "Here's Mommy!"

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