Play Activities - The First Year of Life

Helping children become physically active doesn’t have to cost much. From the time they’re newborns until they’re walking, children can benefit from a number of simple activities. Certain actions suit specific age periods, but they’re all geared toward building skills.

Many simple, inexpensive activities exist that can help children’s physical development. There are useful actions appropriate to each stage between infancy and the time they are walking.

From newborn until six months, children require activities that will work on their balance and coordination. Let them “feel” things by moving their limbs and stroking their feet and hands with various objects. Encourage them to move on their own by having them seek out toys that are just out of their reach.

At six to eight months, it’s all about support. Hold them in different positions so they can get a feel for them. Once they’re able to support themselves a bit, do things that require them to move or react. Use a mobile in their crib and make bath time fun.

Between nine and 12 months, children begin moving more on their own. Make sure their environment and the toys they play with are safe and stimulating. Do rhythmic activities. Get children playing outdoors.

Once children start trying to walk, give them plenty of practice in a space where they can fall safely. Help them walk on different surfaces. Then, they can start walking with things in their hands.

Learn more about play activities during the first year of life.