How to Stimulate a 6-Month-Old's Senses

At six months, a baby is able to recognize many different sights and sounds. She'll probably be particularly drawn to bright colors and toys that make sounds. There are many ways to engage her in play. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Baby Blankets
• Baby Toys
• Toy Car

1. Fill plastic bottles with different amounts of water and then tap on them with a spoon. Your baby will notice the sounds, and after a while, she'll join you in the game.
2. Try the triple challenge: Hand your baby a third toy when she already has one in each hand. After a lot of practice, she'll learn that she has to put one toy down in order to pick up the new one.
3. Partially hide a favorite toy under a blanket or square of material. She'll learn to pull at the part of the toy she sees.
4. Slide a tiny car across a table so that your baby can watch it fall off. After a while she will anticipate the fall and look at the floor before the car drops.
5. Hide a musical wind-up toy under a diaper. She'll listen to the music and perhaps search for the box.

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 your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby's development.