Brain-Building Series: 6 Games to Play with Babies (6 months)
Play is crucial for infants as it fosters strong brain development, sets the groundwork for lifelong health, and builds resilience. Engaging in playful interactions with caregivers also enhances babies' executive function skills. Activities such as hiding games, finger play, and conversational games help babies learn to focus their attention, utilize working memory, and practice self-control.
When you play with a baby, follow their lead! Engage in games that pique their interest and allow them to dictate the pace and transition to new activities.
1. Peekaboo!
Babies enjoy hide-and-seek games. This activity encourages them to remember who is hiding and helps them develop self-control. You can mix it up by allowing them to wait for you to reveal your face or giving them control over the timing.
2. "Trot Trot to Boston"
Sit the baby on your knees, facing you, and gently bounce them while chanting the words. You can make it fun by saying the phrases quickly or slowly: “Trot trot to Boston, Trot trot to Lynn. Watch out little [baby’s name], or you might fall in!”
3. "Pat-a-Cake"
Sing “Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man. Bake me a cake as fast as you can!” while gently clapping and rolling the baby’s hands. Increase the tempo as you repeat the song.
4. Hiding Games
Conceal a toy under a cloth, cup, or box and encourage the baby to find it. Once they get the hang of it, show them that you’ve moved the toy, and challenge them to locate it again. Celebrate their success by saying, “You found it!” Keep playing as long as they’re engaged, and be attentive to their mood if they lose interest.
5. Conversation Games
At around six months, babies start making sounds like “ga,” “ma,” and “ba.” Sit facing the baby on your lap and make playful sounds, pausing to see if they respond. When they babble or make faces, mirror their sounds and expressions. Share a meaningful story, like the day they were born, and pause to ask them questions, encouraging them to contribute their imaginative details.
6. Fingerplays
Babies enjoy songs and chants that include simple hand movements. With practice, they can learn to imitate motions and remember sequences. Popular examples in English include "Eensy Weensy Spider" and "Where is Thumbkin?" Many cultures offer fun fingerplays in different languages.
(Source: Harvard University)