If too much activity agitates your child, ease up on the intensity and length of play. Reading to a child offers wonderful bonding opportunities, and it's never too early to start. But don't race through a story or choose complicated texts. Find age-appropriate ways to engage babies in the material. If reading is merely a passive activity for toddlers, they won't learn how to be critical thinkers or to take the initiative.
Attention is essential, but so is the opportunity for individual exploration.
Constant hovering prevents Baby from finding other diversions, whether it's the stuffed bear in the crib or the howling wind outside. Click for more options or for help .