If you have a little one at home, you've likely noticed that around four months old, they start reaching out more deliberately. This could be towards toys hanging from a play gym, a mobile above their crib or stroller, or an object you hold up for them.
Reaching out is one of the most important ways your baby experiences the world and is their first step towards actively engaging with their environment. Dikla Shalom, a baby development consultant using the "First Step" method and the manager of "Smiles" Center in Petah Tikva, shares essential tips to help encourage your baby to reach out and begin their exploration:
Create an Optimal Learning EnvironmentMake sure their hands are free, but also ensure their mouth, a primary exploration tool, is not occupied. Removing their pacifier periodically will help them move, explore, and respond more effectively.
Encourage Movement in All DirectionsOur range of motion is extensive, so challenge your baby by encouraging them to reach for objects from all around. Don't just hold toys above their head; try from the sides and below too.
Challenge Their ReachPart of exploration involves discovering how far they can reach. While they will initially grab objects close to them, gradually increase the distance to enhance their reaching and grasping skills. However, this doesn't mean tossing a toy far away and expecting them to find a way to it.
Allow for FrustrationStruggling is part of the learning process. While it can be frustrating, the effort helps build muscle strength and a sense of accomplishment, which is crucial for learning.
Introduce Various TexturesLet your baby’s hands explore different textures, even the less pleasant ones. Encourage them to reach out and touch sticky, spiky, and rough materials as well.
Maintain SymmetryDon’t dismiss your baby's side preference as "just being right-handed." Ensure they reach out in all directions to promote symmetrical development. Hand dominance will only start to solidify around ages 3-4, so there's no rush to make declarations about it now.
The Jama AppThe Jama app was created to support mothers of babies from birth to three years old, providing content, activities, expert tips, and videos tailored to each developmental stage. This ensures mothers receive relevant and interesting information at every moment.
Jama is the place for Israeli mothers to meet and connect with other moms around them, forming new and exciting friendships during this fascinating journey.
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Daniel Saranetsky, in collaboration with JAMA