
It’s so exciting to explore the world with your little ones as they grow, especially during the summer months! Between 6 months and 1 year, babies are little sponges. They are constantly learning, exploring, and developing new skills. Providing engaging activities helps boost their cognitive, motor, and sensory development, and also strengthens that special bond between you.
These experiences are crucial for their early childhood development, helping them learn about cause and effect, object permanence, and fine and gross motor skills. Plus, they’re just plain fun for both of you!
If you are thinking of things to do with your baby in summer, here are some wonderful, easy-to-do baby activities that will keep your little explorer happy and engaged:
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| Spending time with your baby boosts fine motor skill |
Kids Drawing projector with Music
Fun Activities for Babies 6-12 Months Old
- Peek-a-Boo Perfection: This classic game is a winner. Hide your face with your hands or a blanket, and then pop out saying “Peek-a-boo!” It teaches object permanence and brings giggles.
- Sensory Bin Fun: Fill a shallow bin with safe, different textures. Think soft fabrics, crinkly paper, or even cooked pasta (cooled!). Supervise closely to ensure everything is safe for mouthing.
- Read Together Often: Cuddle up with board books. Point to pictures and name objects. Use different voices for characters to make it extra engaging. Reading boosts language development.
- Mirror, Mirror: Let your baby explore their reflection in a safe, unbreakable mirror. They’ll love seeing themselves and making faces. This helps with self-awareness.
- Ball Rolling Games: Roll a soft ball back and forth. It helps with hand-eye coordination. Your baby will love watching it roll and trying to grab it.
- Water Splash Play: A shallow bowl of water with some safe floating toys can provide endless fun. Supervise closely during water play. It’s great for sensory exploration.
- Stacking and Building: Offer soft blocks or stacking cups. Encourage them to stack them up, and then enjoy watching them knock them down! This builds fine motor skills.
- Music and Movement: Put on some music and dance together. Hold your baby and gently sway, bounce, or clap their hands. Music helps with rhythm and gross motor skills.
- Household Object Exploration: Give them safe everyday items to explore. Think wooden spoons, plastic containers, or soft sponges. They love discovering new textures and sounds.
- Bubble Time Wonders: Blow bubbles for your baby to watch and try to catch. They are mesmerized by the floating, popping magic. It’s a fantastic visual tracking activity, perfect for summer fun!
