Baby games can include anything from tapping rhythms and rolling balls to sitting in front of a mirror. Any activity that involves touch and interaction will entertain your baby. Infants want your attention, and they also need plenty of time to observe their surroundings. Movement helps babies learn to coordinate their bodies. When your baby watches you smile and play happily, it builds his confidence in the world around him.
Leg Movements
Rotating your baby's legs builds muscle and helps prevent gas build-up in her belly. Let your baby relax on her back and babble with you as you gently move her legs in a bicycle motion for several minutes. Massage her belly by softly bending her knees into her chest and then straightening them. Hold bells or rattles over your baby's feet, encouraging her to move on her own. As she kicks the toys, she'll be excited to hear various sounds.
Tummy Time
Babycenter.com recommends tummy time from day one. Babies who do not spend time on their bellies often have delays in motor skill development. Arrange toys or a mirror on the floor around your baby. Lay on your belly with him to make him feel more comfortable. As he shows an interest in something, move the object slightly, which will encourage him to learn to reach or shift his weight forward to get it.
Peek-a-Boo
A baby game list would be incomplete without "peek-a-boo." Babies love surprises and anticipation. This game can be played anywhere. Grab a brightly colored blanket or napkin, and drape it over your head briefly before popping out with a big smile. Drape the cloth over your baby's head too. Babycenter.com encourages playing "peek-a-boo" because it helps babies with the concept of object permanence--the notion that people and things exist even when they are out of view.
Songs and Rhymes
Singing soothes babies because it mimics their own melodic cooing and babbling, according to Parenting.com. Sing songs with hand gestures like "Itsy Bitsy Spider" or "The Wheels on the Bus." Place your baby in your lap and clap her hands to play pat-a-cake. As she learns to sit up, help her with coordination by guiding her hands through the gestures. She will surprise you by moving through the motions of each song on her own before you know it.
