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Brain Builders

An Introduction

By Tammy Morey

Babies are constantly growing and developing both physically and mentally, so they naturally tire easily. Therefore, it is important to learn your baby's specific signs of over-stimulation and respond to them. If your baby becomes upset, simply stop performing the exercise. The period of time that you spend doing the exercises will depend on your baby; however, it is best to start slowly (five to 10 minutes) every day and gradually extend the length of the time period. Signs of over-stimulation include wide eyes, crying, squirming with arms and legs flailing, wrinkling of the brow, thrusting of the tongue, splaying fingers and toes, lifting the legs and looking away from you or looking uncomfortable. If you notice any of these behaviors, give Baby a little break.

You also don't want to perform every exercise in one session. Every few days add a new exercise, and you'll be finishing the entire program in no time. There is no specific time that is best, just whenever your baby is calm, relaxed, comfortable and alert. This is when he will be paying attention and benefit the most. Notice your baby's fingers and toes, because whenever you notice him lightly fanning and stretching them toward you, he is telling you that he is attentive and saying, "I enjoy what you are doing."

To start, all you'll need is your baby's receiving blanket and some music. I always recommend using music because it engages both you and your child, as well as helps communicate coordination and rhythm. With an infant, you will be doing most of the work and feel as if your baby might not be getting anything from the exercise, while in actuality his muscles are being used and, thus, worked. Later on you will notice that your baby responds by working with or against your movements.

Want to see more?

• Introducing Music to Your Baby
• The Mind of the Baby: Unleashing Your Child's Potential
• Sing and Play With Your Baby
• Talk about it!

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