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Make Learning Fun

Developmental Games for Baby

By Megan L. Fowler

While all of these physical activities will assist in social development, there are other games you can play with your child to enhance this aspect of learning. "A great game is balls," says Erle. "One of the things kids learn at an early age is that when they roll a ball, it will come back to them. You can play the basic roll and back, or the ball can go through a cause and effect sequence." Drop it in the hoop where you can get a lot of people involved in the game, she says. Roll it on the floor through cloth tunnels, or roll it down slides. This will all help the child understand the reasoning behind it all.

Also, peek-a-boo with scarves and sheets is social. Lift the cloth high in the air and let it billow down over the child's face. This can be very entertaining for children.

Playing pretend is also a great way to get their social skills going, adds O'Brien. "Play phones are great or even old real ones," she says. Let them have imaginary conversations with Grandma or even Sponge Bob.

Jamie Elliott Greene, a mother of two in Henderson, Nev., and owner of ASmartBaby.com

Want to see more?

• Brain Builders: Stimulating Activities for Your 3-month-old Baby
• Books, Babies and Brains: A Few More Good Reasons to Read to Your Baby
• Introducing Music to Your Baby
• Talk about it!