Getting Ready for Play

  • Prepare your child for a new toy by describing different features as you and your child explore it, hand over hand.
  • Talk about the toy; what it feels/sounds like, what to do to make it work and what happens when it does.
  • Tummy-time play will encourage your child to hold his head up and push on his arms; these actions help to get him ready for moving.
  • To keep toys within your child's reach, try confining them in box tops, planter bases, etc.
  • Try creating a new play area within an empty inflatable pool, tent, porta-crib, etc., which defines boundaries. Anchor some toys in this play area so your child becomes familiar with them, and rotate other toys frequently for variety and to keep the play fresh.

Toys/Features to Look For

  • Overhead gyms
  • Word-, sound- and music-makers
  • Toys with realistic sounds and figures
  • Toys that react to simple touch
  • Mirrored toys
  • Toys with high-contrast colors, patterns or lights
  • Toys that magnify
  • Varied textured surfaces (e.g., soft, bumpy, smooth, etc.)
  • Toys with differentiated areas (e.g., dials, buttons, knobs)

Play Stages

Choose an area of special needs for your child