Support his middle as he tries to creep or crawl. Fly him slowly through the air or waltz him around the room. An infant's calm yet alert frame of mind is an invitation to read or recite some nursery rhymes, sing a song, or strum a guitar. Strap your little one, facing forward, into a frontpack, and go for a leisurely stroll. Point out the clouds, the cars, the birds, the distant barking of a dog.
Studies show that babies prefer listening to a high-pitched, melodious, rhythmic voice.
Encourage your baby to talk by treating him as an active participant in your exchanges, responding to each coo he makes and waiting for him to reply after you've spoken. If your baby starts to whimper or turn his head away, he's telling you that he's had enough for the moment, according to Charles Schaefer, Ph.D., a child psychologist at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey, and coauthor of Raising Baby Right. Continuing the play session at that point will only make him feel more and more overwhelmed. 1 to 3 years Your toddler may have trouble communicating her ideas, so some gentle guidance may be in order. But remember who's in charge.