You can start actively encouraging independent play around 3 months by giving your baby time and space to discover, according to Gallo. “What’s amazing is that children start engaging in independent play so naturally, so it’s really about following their lead,” she says. “Think of your infant who is lying on the floor following the shadows or discovering their hands. That’s play!” At this age, Cook says, “It’s more about exploring their environment and offering access to sensory experiences that are age-appropriate.”