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3 Simple Things to Help Your Baby’s Development

Last week, on my way to pick up my daughter from school, I saw my younger self out on a walk. (Okay, not literally—but hear me out.)

There was this young mom in my old neighborhood, walking a Bernese Mountain Dog (the same breed we had when my oldest was born). She had a six-month-old baby snug in a front pack, and it was that early evening witching hour—you know, the one where you’re just trying to survive until bedtime.

I wanted to stop the car and say so many things to her.

But I didn’t—because that would be kind of weird.

Instead, as I drove on, I found myself remembering that season of life.
The endless questions, the constant wondering:

Am I doing this right?
Is my baby’s development on track?
Will she fall asleep tonight?
Should I use the stroller or the carrier?
Is she getting enough tummy time?
If I had stopped the car, and she’d asked for my advice, I would’ve told her this:

There’s so much to think about when your baby is little. My mom knew that better than anyone—my brother has a disability, and she spent years learning everything she could about baby development through therapy sessions and research. She passed on three simple things that I always kept in mind when I wasn’t sure what to do.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional to do them. They’re so simple we sometimes forget how important they really are.


3 Simple Things to Help Your Baby’s Development


1. Talk to them

Just because your baby can’t talk back yet doesn’t mean you shouldn’t talk to them. Let them hear lots of words every day.

If it feels awkward, try:

⭐️ Narrating what you’re doing (“Now we’re putting on your socks!”)
⭐️ Singing a song
⭐️ Reading out loud

2. Put them on the ground

Babies need plenty of chances to move—stretch, roll, reach, grab, and wiggle—to build the foundation for bigger movements. Spending too much time in strollers, car seats, bouncers, or rockers makes it harder for them to practice these skills. Give your baby plenty of floor time everyday. 

Have you tried floor time in these places?

⭐️ At the park?
⭐️ On the hotel room floor?
⭐️ At the airport?

👉 Do you want some more easy Floor Play Ideas for Your Baby? I have a free download with lots of great ideas to try.


 

3. Let them look around

Give your baby chances to take in the world—different sights, lights, colors, and faces. Their vision is constantly developing, and new things to look at help strengthen their focus and curiosity.


Here are some easy ways to mix it up:

⭐️ Take a walk and let them watch the trees sway or cars go by.
⭐️ Hold them near a window to watch the rain, snow, or birds outside.
⭐️ Visit a new place, like a park or a farmer’s market, where they can take in different sights and people.

Bonus: This is also a great way to talk to them! Just narrate what you’re both seeing as you go.

PS - Finding a good place for floor time is exactly why I invented the Lay and Play Adventure Mat—so my baby could have a clean, comfortable space for floor time both at home and on the go.
Baby on activity mat play gym at park doing tummy time

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