Games to play with your baby (1022)

As your baby reaches 5 and 6 months, watch how he reacts when things disappear from view. Does baby lean over to look for things he dropped? Does baby put a toy down and go right back to it later?

These are signs that baby's memory is starting. When she was younger, it was "out of sight, out of mind." Now, she is learning that things exist even when not in sight.

You can have fun with baby and help him remember what he sees:

* Show baby a favorite toy, then turn her away so she can't see it. If baby turns her head or body to look for the toy, praise her and help her get it.

* Show baby a toy, then cover it (slowly at first) with a cloth or cup. Does baby try to pull the cover off?

* Play Peek-a-Boo to help baby learn that you come back when you go away. Baby is learning that you exist even when he can't see you. He may get upset when you leave. Be sure to tell him goodbye and that you'll be back. Don't sneak out to fool baby; it will scare him. If baby doesn't play these games now, wait a few weeks and try again.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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