How to Stimulate a 5-Month-Old's Senses

Your 5-month-old's moods are becoming more defined, and you'll probably find that he's babbling up a storm. There are many ways to engage him in play. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Balls For Toddlers
• Unbreakable Mirror For A Baby
• Frying Pan

1. Give your baby a large, shiny pan that he can see himself in. Let him pat it, roll it and bang it. He'll also love to play with mommy and daddy's toys - the phone and remote control.

2. Hold him in front of a full-length mirror and let him watch his reflection. Or put an unbreakable mirror near the changing table to make diapering more interesting.

3. Bounce a large ball up and down while he watches. Bounce it higher and lower, slower and faster; he'll get better and better at following the movement with his eyes.

4. Roll a ball under a chair that's against a wall so the ball hits the wall. See if he watches as the ball rolls back.

5. Put his fingers on your lips as you make different sounds: b, m, d, ah, ee and oo. Let him feel the vibrations as each sound is made.

6. Draw a face properly, and then draw one with extra eyes or with the mouth and nose reversed. Watch to see if he's able to tell which one's right and which one's distorted.

Tips & Warnings

• Take down mobiles that are out of reach. Your baby will no longer be content just looking at interesting things; he'll want to grasp, feel, twist, turn and examine.
• Let your baby be your guide when selecting activities: What new skills is he working on? What sorts of toys engage his attention? What makes him 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 your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby's development.