Learn how to stimulate you baby's sensory development

Stimulating a baby's sensory development is important to introduce sounds, smells, tastes and sights.

The moment your little one is born, he begins to learn about the world around him. How exciting, to go from a dark, still place to the world outside! Your child is constantly inundated with new sounds, sights, smells and touches that help him learn more about his new environment. You can help, too! Promote sensory development with a few tips:

Over-stimulation
Imagine being in a traffic jam. You have a pounding headache, and you're surrounded by thumping rap music, horns and the squeal of brakes. Now add in the glare of the sun glinting off the car in front of you, and you've got sensory overload. This is how your baby feels when over-stimulated. Too many loud noises or too much visual stimulation can make his poor little brain reel.

Sights and Sounds
Your baby loves the sound of your voice, and some studies even indicate that he recognizes your voice at birth! Try to use a calm, reassuring tone with him. Avoid abrupt, loud noises. Sing to him. Even if you don't have the pipes for American Idol, your baby will love it.


There are toys on the market that are designed for infant visual stimulation. Several years ago, researchers found that infants had a far easier time discerning black, white and red colors. Now, there are mobiles and playmates in these colors that can help baby with his visual development.

Mirrors are also great for visual stimulation. Non-breakable crib mirrors are available, and some even have soothing music and blinking lights.

Touch 
Some babies like to be touched more than others. Let your baby stretch out on a blanket on the floor. Strip his clothes off him and let him get some air. Some gentle infant massage can help stress relief, too. Again, avoid over-stimulation. Passing him around from one cousin to another all evening can cause him to overload.


There are lots of toys on the market that promote sensory development for infants through touch. Soft toys with varying surfaces can be held, stroked and chewed on.

Babies like to put everything in their mouths for a reason...they find sensory clues with one of their most sensitive organs - their tongues. Of course, keep an eye on what they're sticking in their mouths. Figuring out the texture of the daily newspaper by licking it is never a good idea!

Make a photo of the process and upload it to the App. Write briefly about your own ways to develop the baby's sensory.