Shake, Rattle and Roll

Babies love to shake, rattle, and roll, but not only with their bodies. The "toys" that they "shake, rattle, and roll," help them to learn about "cause and effect." When "cause and effect" are being learned, these types of experiences are teaching them to motivate themselves. Once they know, that if they push or touch this, then such and such will happen, they will want to take part in this type of "play" over and over again.

Now, to discuss some of the toys used to experience the cause and effect.

First and foremost, you, the parent, are one of the most important and interesting "toys" in your child's world. Any toy that is responsive, is a "toy" that will continue to give your child enjoyment and lifelong motivation. Once you condition your child that she/he will always get a response from you, this will continue for their lifetime. (when they get older though, your "responses" will not be the same as when your children were babies, although they still count, and always will. They will continue to seek-out your "responses").

Secondly, babies like any types of toys that are high in contrasting colors and textures. These toys can be in the form of mobiles with highly contrasting objects, and activity boxes with different textures for them to feel and touch. Speaking of feel and touch, babies love to swat and bat at hanging objects, such as mobiles. These types of toys could include musical parts as well. Mirrors are a favorite of most babies. They are so inquisitive that they will always come back time and time again to see and play with the little friend they have made in their mirror.

Lastly, everything in your house is "fair game" to these little learners. Start with your cupboards. Let them have a cupboard all their own where they can store some of their personal toys. Not only should they be able to have some of their small toys for their little "special" play area, they should be able to use some of your "safe" kitchen equipment as well. Let them play with empty Kool-aid cans. They make great drums! Pots, pans, and wooden spoons make great bongos and "more" drums, and finally, measuring spoons and cups make even better "bangers." It can become louder and louder the more "adept" at playing your child becomes, but just remember, when your head is pounding and you are on your second dose of acetaminophen, "they are learning." If you know this, and remember this, you will rejoice each time you hear

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