How to Stimulate a 2-Month-Old's Physical Development

At two months, a baby's movements are rarely random and uncoordinated. Simple activities will help her to gain even better control of the motions she makes. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Baby Socks
• Squeaky Toys For A Baby
• Pompoms

1. Put a brightly colored infant sock on one of your baby's hands. As she moves it around, she'll learn how to manage her hands so they stay in front of her eyes, where she can watch them.
2. Try sewing a bell to the sock so she can make the connection between her actions, the sound and the movement of the sock.
3. Put a squeak toy in your baby's hand. The accidental squeaks it makes when she grips it will help her become aware of what her hand is doing.
4. Put your baby on her back and hold up pompoms. Let them drop on her tummy and explain what you're doing. As she matures, she'll learn to anticipate the falling pompom.
5. Exercise her legs by holding her feet in your hands and pushing them gently in a circle. Soon she'll be pushing back against your hands.
6. Hang objects over the bottom of the crib so she can exercise her legs by kicking at them. Use objects of different lengths and textures.

Tips & Warnings

• Respect your baby's cues. If a particular activity seems to stress her out or frustrate her, stop and give it a try another day.
• Remember that all babies develop at different speeds, usually with spurts and plateaus.
• Consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your newborn's development.