Physical skills develop as a baby learns how to crawl, scoot, reach, grasp, climb and balance. Helping babies develop physically not only can encourage growth milestones, such as crawling or walking, but can help keep them safe. For example, babies who have adequate neck muscle development may be less prone to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Although babies all develop at different paces, babies and their parents or caregivers can play many games to encourage physical development.
Tummy Games
As BabyCenter.com explains, giving a baby plenty of time on her tummy can help physical development. "The experience of being on their tummy helps babies learn to push up, roll over, sit up, crawl, and pull to a stand," says pediatrician Danette Glassy. To encourage tummy time in a playful way, get on the floor with baby. Lie on your own tummy, and roll the baby from side to side. Offer gentle exclamations, such as "Oopsy daisy, Oopsy daisy," as you roll her. Try rolling the baby gently on an exercise ball to provide a change of scenery.
Rolling
Teach a baby to roll with the aid of toys. BabiesToday.com suggests laying a baby on his back so you can dangle a toy over his head. When you have the baby's attention, slowly revolve the toy from one side to the other, urging your child to reach for it. Repeat the game, encouraging your baby to roll over on each side. When he successfully rolls, reward him with the toy.
Fly
To continue building her neck and upper body muscles, BabyCenter.com encourages holding your baby up in the air. Pretend she is flying overhead in a rocket ship or airplane, or make believe that your baby is a helicopter. Give a traffic report or pretend to chase down a renegade traffic offender. Make the appropriate entertaining noises to match. You can also play elevator with your child by holding her up in the air and descending semi-quickly to the floor. Delight your child by adding a "Ding!" when you reach the bottom.
Obstacles
To encourage crawling, BabiesToday.com suggests putting a desirable object just out of your baby's reach. Urge him to stretch and reach to get it. When your baby begins to crawl, help him improve his skills by putting the toy farther away on the floor so he has to crawl or creep to get it. If he is enjoying himself, continue moving the object around the room. BabyCenter.com also recommends setting up a mini-obstacle course for your baby. Put pillows, books, laundry or even a parent on the floor for him to crawl over. He may enjoy the challenge and versatility, plus it will help improve his motor skills.
