You can play and interact with your baby as often as you want, says Edward Christophersen, a clinical psychologist. After all, you are your baby's favorite companion. That said, babies need time on their own, too, so they can gradually start to understand that they're independent from you.
Look for occasions when you can place your baby on a pad or blanket in a comfortable area on the floor with some soft toys within easy reach. Leave him or her there for a short time to explore his or her environment and learn to be alone and self-entertain. Over a few weeks, try to stretch out that solo playtime. Be observant and read your baby's signals: Try to pick him or her up before any fussing or crying begins.