These baby sensory activities will help to stimulate your new-borns’ senses:

Speak to your infant. During the first month, babies are extremely sensitive to the sound of human voices, especially high-pitched ones, like when you’re using “baby talk,” so even though they can’t yet understand you or respond, you should still chat to your newborn. She might move her head your way and listen intently when you speak to her. Take note of how she reacts to your various tones; she might even synchronise her arm and leg motions with your speech.

Read to your child. Reading to your child Did you realise that your baby can recall some of the sounds they hear from such an early age? Test it out: For several days in a row, read a short story to your child. Then, wait a few days, and read the story once more while watching your child’s body language. Does he appear to be familiar with any sounds? Check out Pampers Parents’ list of the top baby books if you don’t already have some picture books at home.

Listen to music together. Music is not only fun for you, it can also be fun or soothing for your baby. Listening to music together can also be a bonding experience, so put on some soft music, hold your baby and sway gently to the tune.

Introduce different textures and finishes. Let your baby experience different tactile sensations by placing them on different surfaces like a smooth or textured blanket, towel or straw mat. Let it safely touch different surfaces if possible: from sticky to smooth, bumpy to flat, cool to warm. You’ll have just as much fun as she does watching her explore.

Play tracking games together. Your baby’s vision will develop slowly over the first few months and years, but you can start encouraging tracking by slowly moving something noticeable in front of him. For example, slowly move your head from side to side or use a colourful or patterned toy like a rattle to try to get his attention. Your little one may not be able to follow the movement at first, but they will learn to do so soon enough. Read more about how your baby’s vision develops here.

Play with expressions. Smile at your baby, stick out your tongue and make different expressions – the more silly and over the top the better! Get nice and close to your baby so he can study your face and features. Soon your little one might start mimicking your facial expressions, and you’ll love when they smile in response to your big grin.

Sing to your baby. Sing your baby your favourite lullaby or song. Even if you think you don’t have the best singing voice, you’ll find that singing can have a calming effect on your newborn when they’re uncomfortable.