How to Play With a 3-Month-Old Baby

At three months, a baby's favorite toy may be his hands. He'll use them to explore his facial features, and he might join his hands together and let each hand take a turn playing with the other. He'll enjoy interacting with you, too. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Things You'll Need

• Ball For A Baby
• Music
• Baby Toys

Instructions

1. Put him on his tummy on the floor. Roll a ball about 2 feet in front of him. With a little practice he'll be able to coordinate his eye and hand movements and reach toward the ball.

2. Ring a bell while he's watching, and then ring it again just out of his line of vision. See if he'll turn and search for the bell with his eyes.

3. Play music with a strong rhythm. Try a variety songs - fast, slow, loud, soft - and soon your baby will learn to recognize the difference.

4. Bring your baby outside. Place him under a tree, and he'll enjoy listening to the leaves, watching light and shadow, and seeing birds and airplanes go by.

5. Sew a bell securely into a wristband and put it on his wrist or leg. Noticing the sound it makes when he moves will help him develop body awareness and eye-hand coordination.

Tips & Warnings

• Respect your baby's cues. 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.