Playing with Baby

Q: I am a first time mother. My son is five months old. I spend time with him, but for some reason I feel like I am not "playing" enough with him. I would like to know if you can give me some suggestions on what kind of games to play with a five-month-old baby besides peek-a-boo and patty cake. I do not feel that is stimulating his mind enough and I want to play games with him and make sure I spend all the quality time I can. I thank you very much.

A: A five-month-old baby doesn't really do a lot of interactive playing yet. As your son becomes more mature and involved in the world, playing will become more natural for him - and, doubtless, for you. Playing with a baby this age is a lot like playing with yourself, with a slightly bemused, uncomprehending audience watching.
What can you do instead? You can help stimulate his mind (and your own!) by concentrating on his senses. Play lovely music and dance around the room, take him for a walk and show him flowers (help him smell them), introduce him to new places, let him watch squirrels in the park and dogs romping on the lawn. Talk to him a lot. Sing to him; when you're feeding him, changing his diaper, getting him changed. Read to him. No, it's not too early! Babies respond to rhythm. Go to the library and find rhyming books. He'll respond to YOUR interest as well… so keep yourself interested and occupied and incorporate him into your daily life! Walk him in a stroller down to the local cafe and park him under an interesting light fixture while you sip your decaf latte.
These are just a few suggestions, I'm sure you can think of dozens more. Enjoy this special time with your little boy. It's a great age!