How to Stimulate a 10-Month-Old's Physical Development

At ten months, individual differences in motor development are very apparent. Some babies are just learning to creep, while others are already good walkers. Help your baby develop, whatever her stage. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Balls For Toddlers
• Aluminum Foil
• Clothespins
• Plastic Containers
• Magazines
• Baby Toys

1. Put some of your baby's favorite toys on a low table if she's able to pull herself up to standing. She'll have to stretch to reach them, which will increase her awareness of "close" and "far away."
2. Try a tearing activity if she's ready. Old magazines, tissue paper, wrapping paper and foil are all fun to rip. If she would rather eat it than tear it, save the activity for a later month.
3. Give her a third toy when she has one in each hand. See if she can figure out how to hold all three toys.
4. Practice filling and emptying a container. Use a plastic bottle and a handful of clothespins. She'll probably need help emptying it at first. Later, vary the containers and the objects.
5. Roll a ball back and forth with her. See if she'll roll it to other adults, too.
6. Play "follow the leader" using simple gestures and movements. Talk about what you're doing so she can learn the words.

Tips & Warnings

• Let your baby be your guide when selecting activities: What new skills is she working on? What sorts of toys engage her attention? What makes her smile?
• If a particular activity seems stressful or frustrating, 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 baby's development.