Long before your baby can communicate much, he or she is developing an ear for speech. Anytime you talk to your baby, you're nurturing the urge for words. A perfect chat time is when he or she is up on the changing table – not only is your baby a captive audience, but your faces are close to the same level. Sharing "secrets" using a cardboard tube will keep your baby intrigued.
Appropriate for:
4 weeks to 4 months
Skills developed:
Auditory
What you'll need:
A cardboard tube from a roll of paper towels
Bring the cardboard tube to the next diaper change. Announce, "I'm going to tell you a secret," then put it next to one of your baby's ears and whisper something short and simple – "I love you" is always a good start. Move the tube over to your baby's other ear and add another secret. If your baby seems confused, let him or her watch your mouth moving to see the source of the sounds.