Brain Development - 9 to 12 months old
During this period things get much easier with the baby especially when it comes to sleeping and eating; baby should now be able to sleep for longer periods and eat healthier and solid foods. This is the period when babies develop social skills and learn to read facial expressions and behavior connected to the expression of feelings. As a first-time mom, I realized that my baby began wanting to play more with me rather than just be by my side. Here are some of the useful steps you can take to help your baby’s brain development.
Observe your baby
At this age, there are chances that your baby will begin showing you what he wants to do. He will come and cuddle with you or bring you toys to play with. Observe your baby, as that is the only way you will be able to see what he likes to do or if he is ready to try something new. For example, if your baby likes banging on things, he might also enjoy playing around with some drum-toys that could develop their sense for music. I did that with my baby and today, he really thinks he will be a musician.
Be an example
This is the period when your baby begins to copy what you do, WebMd says. Imitation, as a form of fun and learning, soon becomes a big part of the baby’s playtime. Your baby might want to imitate you talking on the telephone, or similar actions. This is why this is a good time to show your baby fun things to do. Again, playing a musical instrument can be a great way to spend some time together with him.
Eat together
Eating together combines a lot of the activities, as your baby will learn by imitating you. Baby will slowly but surely come to understand how to hold a spoon or even a fork, how to behave during meal time, as well as continue learning about new foods, new tastes and textures.
Sing and dance together
I found out that this was the best time to engage my baby in singing and dancing, as he was able to clap his hands and dance to the sound of music. This is a fun activity that boosts brain development and the mood of everyone involved, so be sure to practice it at least once a day.
Read together
Chances are, your baby won’t be able to sit through a whole bedtime story at this age, but you can begin to read together by flipping the pages of a children’s book. This activity will boost the baby’s ability to concentrate.
I hope with these I was able to help out other first-time moms like me with some advice. Again, be aware that each baby develops at their own pace, and not every activity might come at the expected time: some things will be learnt sooner and some later, as said on WebMd.
If you have any concerns it is always better to check them with your doctor early on.
Jinga Life, a practical application that stores all the family’s medical records, can be used so that you don’t have to think of every single piece of paper you need to show your doctor during your visits.
