A simple trick to stimulate growing brains that doesn't take extra time or money.
Since we know that a baby's brain is growing quickly during the first 3 years of life, let me share a simple way to stimulate curiosity and persistence.
➜ Inspire your baby by providing her with just the right amount of challenge.
Think of ways you can inspire your baby without frustrating her. For instance, a toy can be placed slightly out of reach so your baby needs to work a little harder to get it. You don't want to put it so far out of reach that your baby can't get it. But a slightly out-of-reach toy will give your baby a challenge and the satisfaction that comes from succeeding.
Another example that's appropriate for a baby who is already crawling is to place cushions on the floor in the play-space so your baby will need to maneuver around them or over them. (Always supervise your baby's play)
Do you see how by making small challenges, you can motivate your baby and also inspire curiosity.
BUT how do you know what the right amount of challenge is?
The answer: observe your baby and she'll tell you. If she gets upset when the toy is out of reach and doesn't want to work to get it, she's telling you the toy is too far out of reach. Every baby is different. Your baby will let you know how you're doing.
P.S. Ok. If you’re thinking, “I love knowing how to help my toddler with his feelings,” take a look at Baby School in bite-sized chunks ① Grab a coffee. ② Read weekly parenting insight. ③ Up your confidence.
