For babies 0-3 months of age

Activity: How Big Is Baby?

Area of Development- Gross Motor Skills

Gross motor skills are an important part of your baby’s development. Gross motor skills pertain to the large muscle movements that eventually assist with the baby’s ability to crawl, walk, and run.

Goal of this Activity – to encourage arm stretches, to move the body through space, to exhibit body awareness

By moving the baby’s arm for her, you bring her awareness and curiosity to the sensation of her muscles and joints changing position.

Materials: your hands

With your baby lying on her back, hold his or her hands as they gently rest on the chest. Say “How big is baby?” then gently stretch both arms all the way out to the side saying “So big!!!” Bring her arms back into the chest and repeat.

Tip: Watch your little one for signs of overstimulation. If he or she begins to fuss or seems agitated, stop the activity.

For more fun activities to do with your infant, check out the Read, Sign and Say Parent Curriculum.