10 Everyday Items That Make Great Infant Toys

http://www.babiestoday.com/articles/toys-and-playtime/10-items-that-make-great-infant-toys-631/3/

You can find plenty of items in your home that will occupy your baby's interest and stimulate their brain. Below are 10 such items.

1. Paper - A single sheet of paper can amuse an infant as they wave it around, laugh at the funny flapping noise it makes, or tear it into a hundred tiny pieces. This can help your baby practice their dexterity while becoming familiar with an everyday object. Infant's movements are not smooth enough for them to get paper cuts, just watch that they don't eat a torn off piece. Remember to only use plain paper, chemicals in ink can be hazardous.

2. Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls - Babies love these because they are shiny and reflective, they're fun to bang on, and they make an interesting noise when rattling against the ground.

3. Computer Keyboard - Give your baby an obsolete keyboard and watch them enjoy the clacking sounds as they pound on the keys. Just secure the loose cable to the back of the keyboard with duct tape before giving to your baby.

4. Piano - From the age of 5 months or so, your baby will probably love being placed on the bench, with you holding them, and given freedom to compose some music. This activity helps babies practice hand-eye coordination, learn about cause and effect, and develop an ear for music.

5. Balls - Any ball large enough not to be swallowed is an engaging toy for an infant. Plastic and rubber are best since they aren't dangerous to chew on.

6. Television Remote - Babies loves pressing buttons. If you have a remote with an LED that goes on when a button is pressed, you baby will be spellbound.

7. Empty Plastic Bottles - Small bottles are good for little hands to manipulate. Larger ones can be lots of fun too by being rolled back and forth or knocked ahead only to rotate back.

8. Used Toilet Paper Tubes - These are easy for little hands to grasp, and stiff so your baby won't destroy them in 5 minutes. They are an interesting cylindrical shape, and can be banged against other objects without harmful consequences.

9. Watches - The faces of most watches, along with the texture of their bands, and the metal buckles make them fascinating for infants.

10. You - You will always be your baby's favorite toy. When you think you are at a loss trying to entertain your baby, do an elevator walk, clap your hands under your knees, play peek-a-boo, sing and dance.. Just be silly! You may just be rewarded with some of those giggles you've come to live for.