Activity Ideas for Babies 6–12 Months

• 1 week ago

Activity Ideas for Babies 6–12 Months

Development at 6–12 Months: What’s Happening?

In this stage, your baby will likely:

• Sit with or without support
• Crawl or attempt to pull up
• Transfer objects from hand to hand
• Explore with hands and mouth
• Respond to name and familiar words
• Enjoy social interaction and mimicry
• Begin to understand cause and effect

Playtime is now about movement, exploration, and meaningful interaction.

Safe Play Environment Checklist

• Soft surface (rug, mat, or padded area)
• Baby-proofed corners and no small parts
• Toys should be non-toxic, easy to clean, and mouth-safe
• Always supervise play
• Provide a mix of open-ended and guided activities

Activity Ideas for 6–9 Months

Sensory Bag

Fill a sealed plastic zip bag with water, glitter, and soft materials (pom-poms, gel beads). Tape it to the floor or high chair tray.

Boosts tactile exploration and finger strength

Basket of Curiosity

Place a mix of textures (wooden spoon, soft ball, sponge) in a shallow basket. Let baby pull each item out one by one.

Encourages reaching, grabbing, and focus

Peekaboo

Use your hands, a cloth, or a soft toy to hide and reveal your face.

Builds object permanence and social joy

Stack and Knock

Stack 2–3 soft blocks and let your baby knock them over. Repeat!

Teaches cause and effect, improves hand control

Activity Ideas for 9–12 Months

Tunnel Crawl

Use pillows and blankets to create a mini crawling tunnel. Place a favorite toy or flashlight at the end to encourage movement.

Supports gross motor coordination and direction-following

Open & Close Play

Offer containers with easy lids, flip tops, or velcro flaps. Let baby open and close them with different objects inside.

 Improves fine motor skills and understanding of object function

Shake and Dance

Give your baby a rattle or make one from a sealed bottle with beans. Play music and move together.

Develops rhythm and auditory processing

Hide-and-Find

Hide a small toy under a cloth and ask, “Where is it?” Watch baby lift the cloth and find the surprise.

Encourages early problem-solving and memory

How to Structure Play in Your Baby’s Day

3–5 play sessions a day of 10–15 minutes each is ideal.

Support from Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu

• Month-by-month development check-ins
• Home-based activity planning for motor, sensory, and communication skills
• Safe and meaningful toy recommendations
• Monitoring for any developmental concerns or delays
• Supporting parent–baby interaction through play
• Coordinated care with developmental therapists if needed