Many parents would agree that there is nothing like being with your baby and observing joy pass across their face. There is a huge range of things and activities that delight babies and help to strengthen the bonds between parents and their children. In fact, many of these activities are just as enjoyable for parents as they are for children and those that have a calming or soothing effect can help to relax all people involved.
So, what are some of the things that babies love most?
1: Baby massage
Just as most adults find massage relaxing and enjoyable, babies often love the nurturing touch of their parents. Baby massage is growing in popularity and is increasingly well respected for its therapeutic benefits in treating conditions such as colic and wind. Of course, a baby does not have to be ill or experiencing discomfort to enjoy infant massage.
It is highly recommended that parents undertake some infant massage training to know and feel confident in correctly administering different strokes and infant massage techniques. Baby massage oil can also enhance the positive effects of massage but it is always important to check that the child has no negative reaction to the oil used. It is wise to try an oil that is recommended through specialised and qualified providers of training for infant massage in Australia.
Many families enjoy building time for infant massage into their daily routines and recognise that their child is still and relaxed as massage strokes are given and after the massage is complete. Parents also report that this activity leaves them feeling relaxed and highly engaged with their child.
2: Bath time
It is no secret that the vast majority of babies and toddlers love time spent in the bath. Of course, there are many different toys, games and songs that can make bath time all the more fun, but it is not uncommon for parents to seek new and interesting activities for the bath.
A very simple but effective activity that children love in the bath is use the suds from your baby’s shampoo to create different characters – such as Mickey Mouse, a unicorn or a rock star – and use a mirror to show your baby the result. They will love it!
3: Magic carpet rides
Another simple activity that children love involves using a blanket to slide your child around the room. Sit your child in the middle of the blanket and pull him or her from place to place.
This very uncomplicated game is so enjoyable for babies because they love to see commonplace items and familiar toys used in very different ways. Your child will also love seeing the rooms with which he or she is so accustomed to from a very different perspective.
When you or your little one has had enough of the magic carpet rides, the blanket can always be used for a game of the ever-popular peek-a-boo.
4: Photo albums
Almost all babies love to look at pictures and a great way to entertain them is to show them photograph albums. Showing your little one baby pictures of you is a great way to amuse them and something that you will probably enjoy too.
Be sure to talk to your baby about the fun things that you used to do and the things that you remember about your childhood. Remember that the more animated you make your stories the better!
There are many things that babies love and activities that are simple and fun to do. Parents often find that the games that they play with their little ones are rewarding, particularly when the excitement and enjoyment of your baby is evident on their faces.