STLMoms Parents As Teachers Tip - It’s Time To Play Baby Games

Games aren't just for older children -- babies love them, too! Playing games with your baby is fun, but games also can increase your baby's skills in several areas of development such as language, intellectual, social skills and motor. Since babies learn through play, The National Center for Parents as Teachers offers some ideas of how to make the most of baby games.

* Choose a time when both you and your baby are rested, relaxed and alert.

* Pay attention to your baby's signals so you know when she's ready to stop, play more or if she wants to change the game.


* Take turns with your baby. Don't rush him. He is learning important lessons when you give him enough time to respond to your play.

* Notice her favorite games. Babies do have preferences and may like some games but not others. Follow her lead. Playing together is more important than what you play.

* If your baby doesn't seem to understand a game, wait a few weeks and try again.

* Try games you remember from childhood. Make funny faces for your baby to imitate, play favorites such as "Peek-a-boo," where you cover and uncover your face and say "peek-a-boo!"; or "Pat-a-cake," where you clap your baby's hands together; or "So Big" where you raise your baby's arms over his head while saying "(Baby's name) is sooooo big!"

For more parenting tips like these, visit www.ParentsAsTeachers.org.