Before babies start walking, they're building their core muscle strength by stretching, rolling, and crawling. By placing a favorite object just outside of your child's reach, you'll encourage him to get to it any way he can!
Brightly colored balls
Board books
Stuffed animals
Favorite toy, or yourself
Lay your baby on his back or stomach and place the object just beyond his reach. Encourage him by smiling and clapping your hands as he moves his arms, hands, and/or legs to reach the object. Once your baby reaches the object with his arms or legs, repeat this activity. If your child gets frustrated, move the object closer.
If your baby is already moving, have him find objects near him. Put the objects places he can crawl to or up on a piece of furniture he can pull himself up on to reach for it. Point to or say certain familiar objects or toys in the room and have him get them. You can guide him physically or with your voice. First choose things that you think he will easily “find” (or are clearly visible) and then make it a little harder as he gets better at listening to your words.
This activity helps your baby develop motor skills, sensory skills, language skills, and social skills.
