Like many first time parents, you’ve probably read a ton of baby developmental books to prepare for parenthood. Now that your baby is home, you want your child to get all the proper brain stimulation so their potential develops to the fullest.
As young as they are, newborns need interaction and stimulation. Whether you want to try some simple games or you’re barely surviving but would like to read about some aspirational activities, here are some fun (and easy) ways you can interact with your new baby.
Why it’s important to interact with your new baby
Get your newborn involved: One-month old baby activities
It’s easy to overthink when you’re a parent, so don’t worry about finding new or the best ways to interact with your baby. Go for the tried and true — it’s all new to your one month old and they won’t know it’s not original.
Talk and read to your one month old
Hold your baby up close and chat about your day, what you see, or narrate what you’re doing with them. Get into the habit of reading to your child and point out fun illustrations and use different voices for various characters.
Sing to your baby and expose them to music
Sing lullabies and fun songs to your newborn, and play music for them. “I loved singing to my babies. I can’t sing but I love music and they enjoyed it,” nurse and mom of twins Eghe Lenze told us. “They are the only people I sing around still until this day.”
Dance with your newborn
Put on some music and sway or dance (gently!) around the room while holding your baby. Not only will you get a leg up on introducing your kid to your favorite artists, you’ll get some exercise and your newborn will experience movement and different sensations.
Just like adults and older children, babies can become overstimulated. If you find them looking away from the main action or becoming fidgety and fussy, give their developing brains a break. Remember children all develop at different rates and there is a wide range of what is considered normal. If you are concerned about your baby’s development, please consult a medical professional.
