How to Stimulate a Baby in the Womb

It is never too soon to introduce your unborn baby to the world around her. She can appreciate various forms of stimulation even before you meet her face-to-face. Giving your baby clues about what awaits her in a few months will help you create a warm, loving atmosphere for your baby well before birth.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Music, such as classical
• Flashlight (optional)

1. Talk to baby every day. Babies in the womb have limited ability to hear but can distinguish their mother's voices from others, so mom should talk to baby using a calm, loving tone. If she is unsure what to say at first, she can tell him about her expectations and hopes once he enters the world. Singing and reading to baby is also encouraged. While talking, mom can rub or gently massage her belly. Then she can take note of any movements this elicits in baby in the later months of pregnancy.

2. Play soothing music. Babies in utero can hear muffled tones, including music. Babies are more apt to hear low-pitch frequencies; when music is loud enough for her to hear it, your baby will be able to pick up sounds such as percussion, bass and low piano notes. Playing classical music is relaxing for not only baby, but for mom, as well. Turn the volume up or even put headphones to your belly so your baby can hear the music.

3. Encourage dad and siblings to communicate with baby. Even though baby will most likely recognize mom's voice above all others, dad, siblings and anyone else who will be an active part of his life once outside the womb should talk to him directly. Your baby will especially hear dad's voice, which is deeper and easier for baby to hear.

4. Use light to stimulate baby. Babies often respond to light, such as a flashlight that is held close to mom's belly. Later in the pregnancy parents often use light to keep baby up longer, which can possibly provide a more restful night for mom. Take notice of how baby responds when light is held close to mom's belly. In an effort to avoid disturbing baby's sleep, only use light when baby is awake and moving.

Tips & Warnings

• Mom should think happy, positive thoughts; baby will be able to sense them.

• Mom should avoid stress whenever possible; stress can have a negative impact on baby's personality development. Avoid shining light directly onto a pregnant belly prior to the last month of the pregnancy; there is a chance that using the light any earlier can possibly damage a developing baby's eyes.

References

• When to Start Teaching Your Baby
• Learning in the Womb