By now you've faced the fact that your baby is going to play with his or her food just as he or she plays with blocks, shoes, and anything else that can be piled up and scattered. Serve your baby's food "Japanese style," in little containers, and at least he or she will learn to practice picking up and dropping things, and sharpen a host of other new skills.

Appropriate for: 8 to 15 months
Skills developed: Fine motor, hand-eye coordination
What you'll need: Several small bowls and plastic containers with lids; finger foods

Fill small bowls with a colorful assortment of your baby's favorite finger foods – like small chunks of soft fruits or well-cooked veggies, O-shaped cereal, tidbits of chicken or fish, and little cubes of cheese. Give your baby some empty containers as well, and encourage him or her to mix and match, transferring the foods from one bowl to the next. (Be prepared for some smearing and throwing, too.) This is a great way to make a meal last long enough for a grown-up conversation.