Touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste are the five tools your baby uses to engage and learn from the world around them.
Even before being born, babies can hear their mom’s voice and heartbeat, with the sense of touch starting to develop right at the beginning too.
To help your baby navigate the new world they are growing up in and to stimulate their sensory building experiences, try out these four tips:
- Black & white is right (at first): Trying to work on sensory development with toys or nursery décor that’s black and white is popular – and good for developing eyes. But at around 2-3 months, babies start to decipher more colors, like red. Try adding more high-contrast colors to keep your baby’s senses engaged.
- Let them explore: Babies are new here – they need to explore absolutely everything! Giving them opportunities to do that will not only help develop their senses, but start building cognitive, physical and social-emotional skills.
- Toys as sensory tools: Toys with mirrors provide self-discovery. Gyms with overhead toys promote eye-tracking, toys with auditory feedback (sounds or lights or both) help with cause and effect. And of course, textured teethers—all babies start their sensory exploration by putting things in their mouths! We love the Smart Stages range, as there are so many sensory stimulating options to choose from.
- Beware of sensory overwhelm: If you and your baby are playing with sensory toys, and they’re turning their head or getting fussy, they may be overstimulated. (As adults, we all understand sensory overload, right?) Try introducing one new toy or activity at a time to allow them to process the sensory information they’re taking in. Then add to it when you think they’re ready. If you’re concerned about your child’s reaction to sensory play, be sure to contact your pediatrician.
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