The birth of a new child is an exciting and joyous time. The first year of their life sees incredible change and growth, helped along by your guidance and teaching. To assist your young one in developing motor, cognitive, and language skills early, First Steps Day Care & Learning Center, a top nursery school in Southbury, CT, has revealed a few activities you can do.

Do the following with your infant to enhance their overall development:

• Reading: An infant’s mind is like a sponge. Reading to your newborn takes advantage of this and provides great benefits. Imagination, creativity, language skills, and even future standardized test scores can be improved through daily reading sessions. You needn’t rely on children’s books alone. Pick one of your favorites and begin reading aloud. This is an incredibly enjoyable and beneficial activity for both parent and baby.  

• Playing Peek-a-Boo: When object performance is developed, generally around the four- to seven-month mark, your infant will begin to understand that when something is hidden, it is not gone forever. To help your newborn develop this skill, play a classic game of peek-a-boo. When you initially hide your face, your child may show signs of distress, as they believe you to be gone. However, when you reappear, they will show their delight. After a while, your child will begin to look for you after you hide. This shows they are learning about permanence. 

• Taking Afternoon Walks: Your infant will become increasingly more curious through their first year of life. They will want to look at and touch everything. Allow their minds to grow by taking them on outings often. A trip to the zoo, the mall, or a simple walk around the neighborhood will let them take in all the new sights, sounds, smells, and feelings.

If you’re wondering about other ways to enhance your child’s development, the professionals at a nursery school are an excellent resource for all questions. And, if your little one is ready for the next phase of early childhood education, First Steps Day Care & Learning Center can help. With over 30 years of experience, they’ll ensure your little one learns and grows in a healthy, warm environment. For more information, visit their website or call (203) 264-3735 today.