Are you looking for things to do with a newborn? We are all about fun, so join us! These activities are great for physical and emotional development while also promoting cognitive and sensory stimulation. Let’s take a look at why bonding is essential, different things to do with your newborn, and some tips for success!
Table of Contents
Importance of Bonding
What is bonding? It’s a relationship between people that is both physical and emotional. So, why is it important to bond with your newborn? Bonding helps a baby’s brain grow, promotes confidence, and the ability to form relationships themselves. Here is what you’ve been looking for – fun and meaningful things to do with a newborn below!
8 Things to Do with a Newborn
Ready to bond with your little one?
Here are 8 activities that you can do with your newborn:
- Skin-to-Skin Contact
This activity is one of the best things to do with a newborn. It established a connection between the two of you. Simply hold your baby against your bear skin and throw a blanket over your bust area. This will create a safe and warm spot for your newborn.
Skin-to-skin should be done as soon as they are born and for 8 hours a day, says the Cleveland Clinic.
- Baby Massage
Massaging is a great way to spend time with your baby and even get them to sleep peacefully. Most parents find the first 6-8 weeks incredibly challenging, as newborns have trouble sleeping. So, message your little one and get them to loosen up for a good night’s rest.
- Reading Aloud
Share some stories with your baby! Reading to them has been shown to help with the development of language. Just because they don’t understand what you are saying doesn’t mean that they are not learning.
Here is a list of great books you can read to your newborn:
- Hello, My World
- Faces: Baby Touch First Focus
- Baby Bunny: Finger Puppet Book
- Singing and Music Time
Have a dance and singing party! This activity can stimulate their auditory development and calm both you and your baby. Sounds like a blast, right?
- Tummy Time
Put your baby on their tummy. It strengthens their neck and shoulder muscles. Tummy time is also known for preventing flat heads.
Tummy time toys:
- Tummy Time Mats
- Tummy Time Mirrors
- Soft Books
- Rattles and Teethers
- Outdoor Walks
Go for a walk with your baby using a stroller or a carrier. Parents often choose a carrier just because it’s better for transportation. The fresh air, new sights, and sounds can be great for your newborn.
- Bath Time Fun
Bathtime can be a fun activity for both you and your baby. Fill a tub with toys and bubbles for a great time. Your baby will be warm and clean – what a combo!
- Baby Yoga
Have you ever tried baby yoga? It allows you and your baby to bond while getting some exercise, improving their well-being. Are you eager to try it?
Here are baby yoga poses:
- Knees to Chest Pose
- Happy Baby Pose
- Baby Cobra Pose
- Butterfly Pose
- Toe to Nose
Tips for Success
It might seem easy, but everything with a newborn has its challenges. So, how do you ensure success?
Just follow these tips:
- Be patient: Patience is probably the most important when it comes to doing things with your newborn. Remember that they are new to all of these things – the sounds, the smells, the movements.
- Create a routine: It’s not a secret that routines create stability. This is what your baby needs! Just be sure to follow a plan or schedule that works for you and your family.
- Follow your baby’s cues: Most of everything revolves around your little one, so look for hunger, sleepiness, and overstimulation. This allows you to find the perfect time to do certain things with them. If they are sleepy, massage them or have some skin-to-skin.
- Start with slow and short activities: Newborns are very fragile and should slow down their integration into things, even if they are fun activities.
- Keep things simple: Newborns enjoy simple activities, and overcomplicating playtime can overstimulate them.
- Use sensory toys: Using these toys helps with their development and keeps them interested. Just make sure to rotate toys.
- Take breaks: Something like bathing can tire these little love balls out.
Conclusion
Finding things to do with a newborn is not only about the laughs or memories but also about their development! There are so many activities for you and your newborn, ranging from skin-to-skin contact to baby yoga. We only discussed 8, but there are certainly more out there.
Start having fun and developing! There’s nothing more significant than bonding, caring, and growing at the same time. And for those who feel a little lost in their journey of parenthood – you’ve got this!
