Games such as pat-a-cake have lasted through the years because they work so well with, and offer so much to, infants. They provide opportunities for social interaction, imitation, touch, rhythmic awareness and yet another chance for Baby to hear your voice.

Following are other games you can play with Baby. But first, here are three points to keep in mind when deciding what and when to play:

1. As you choose activities to do with Baby, consider providing a variety of opportunities based on her level of skill development. You'll want to select activities she can easily master and those that provide practice in areas she is still developing. Remember, too, that repetition is essential in early childhood. Repeat Baby's favorite activities as often as possible. You'll tire of them long before she will!

2. While you're playing, use language with Baby, describing what you're doing and what he's doing or seeing and delighting in his accomplishments. Not only will this provide motivation, but it also will promote Baby's language development.

Content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment, and may not be used for such purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical question or condition. Reliance on information presented on this site is at your own risk. This site contains the opinions and views of other users. Given the interactive nature of this site, we cannot endorse, guarantee, or be responsible for the accuracy, efficacy, or veracity of any content generated by our users.