Archives for November 2007

Toys are learning tools for babies. Often, simple household objects like pots and wooden spoons are great toys. If you buy toys, make sure they are safe for your baby. Don’t let your baby play with anything that has parts he can choke on. Check for sharp edges and points that can cause injuries. Offer the following kinds of toys to your 11- … [Read more...] about Toys, Toys, Toys

Help your baby build learning skills. The following activities use materials that you’re likely to have around the house. Physical skills Over and under: Your baby is discovering that his size is changing. Some spaces are now too small to scoot under. Now he can reach new things. Help him explore his size. Make a tunnel from cardboard boxes taped … [Read more...] about Building Skills Through Play

Some parents are eager for their baby to walk. They think that a baby walker will help the process along. In fact, walkers make learning to walk a slower process. They strengthen muscles in the lower leg. But they don’t help develop muscles in the upper leg and hip—the muscles most needed in walking. Walkers also make getting around too easy. They don’t help babies … [Read more...] about Baby Walkers

Your baby wants to be with you. You are the person your baby knows and loves best. He knows when you are not with him. This creates a fear that you will not return. This distress is called “separation anxiety.” It is an important part of growing up. Help your baby separate from you. Avoid leaving when he is hungry, tired or sick. Ask the caregiver or baby-sitter to … [Read more...] about Separation Anxiety

Your baby has a temperament. Temperament can make a person behave in a certain way. For example, one baby may cry and hide at the sight of a large animal. Another baby may be cautious and interested. And a third may be fearless and try to play with the animal right away. The first temperament is sometimes called “slow-to-warm-up.” You may hear the second … [Read more...] about Discovering Your Baby’s Temperament