Early Play

ReadyStepGrow Baby Prems Program

Recommended Toys and Equipment (0-4 months corrected-age) 🎉

In the first few months of life, premmies begin to explore their bodies and the world around them through play—both with toys and through interactions with the people they love. Every giggle, grasp, and gaze is a step in their development, shaping how they engage with their surroundings. 👶💛

The Magic of Early Play ✨

During these early months, premmies learn to move against gravity—lifting their heads, waving their arms and legs, and beginning to control their movements. They start recognizing faces, responding with heartwarming smiles 😊, and inspecting their own hands. Play becomes a tool for learning, as they explore objects with their hands and mouths and even begin to grasp and shake a rattle. 🎶

Babies also become increasingly responsive to voices and sounds, tracking toys and objects with their eyes. Every moment of engagement with your premmie—whether through eye contact, talking, singing 🎵, or simply being present—contributes to their growth and development. 🧠

You Are Your Premmie’s Best Toy 🤱

One of the most valuable playthings for your premmie at this stage is you! Your presence, attention, and playful interaction are essential in supporting their development. Smiling 😊, talking, singing, and gentle touch provide comfort and stimulation, helping them learn about communication and connection. 💕

Choosing the Right Toys 🧸

When selecting toys for your 0-4 month-old, opt for items that stimulate their developing senses. Bright, contrasting colors 🎨, a variety of textures, and toys that make sounds 🔔 or light up ✨ can capture their interest. Encourage movement by placing toys on both sides of your premmie and, as they grow, positioning them at a slight distance to promote reaching and swiping movements. Allow them to feel and explore different objects with their hands and mouth. 🖐️👄

Recommended Toys for 0-4 Months (corrected-age):

• Rattles, shakers, bells & rings – Great for auditory stimulation and hand-eye coordination. 🎵

• Soft toys – Provide comfort and tactile exploration. 🧸

• Blocks & stacking cups – Introduce early problem-solving and fine motor skills. 🏗️

• Mirrors – Encourage self-recognition and visual engagement. 🪞

• Cloth or board books – Promote early language skills and bonding. 📚

• Teether toys – Help soothe gums while supporting oral exploration. 🦷

• Plastic containers – Simple household items can be fascinating! 🔄

• Hanging toys – Stimulate visual tracking and reaching. 🎠

• Balls with gaps (e.g., Oball) – Easy to grasp and encourage movement. ⚽

Beneficial Equipment for Development 🏋️‍♂️

Certain types of premmie equipment can enhance play and support your premmie’s development:

• Mobiles – Stimulate visual tracking and focus. 🎡

• Sensory play mats – Provide varied textures for tactile exploration. 🧶

• Play gyms with overhead toys – Encourage reaching, grasping, and kicking. 🎠

• Baby swings & bouncers – Offer gentle motion to soothe and engage your premmie. 🏀

Equipment to Avoid ⚠️

While some premmie gear is beneficial, others can negatively impact development. Baby walkers and jolly jumpers are not recommended as they encourage unnatural movements, such as tiptoe walking 🚶‍♂️ and back arching, which can interfere with core strength and the transition to walking. ❌

Play Safety Tips 🔒

Your premmie’s safety is a top priority during playtime. Keep these guidelines in mind:

• Always supervise play. 👀

• Avoid toys with small parts, sharp edges, or long cords. ⚠️

• Ensure toys are age-appropriate and made from safe materials. ✅

Explore More Play Resources 🌍

Looking for more ideas to support your premmie’s development? Check out these helpful resources:

• Daily Vroom App – Provides daily play and developmental activity ideas based on your child’s age. Free on the App Store or Google Play. Visit Vroom. 📱

• Raising Children Network – www.raisingchildren.net.au 🌱

• The Centre for Community Child Health – www.rch.org.au/ccch/publications-resources/ 🏥

• Kidscount – www.kidscount.com.au 🔢

• KidsMatter Early Childhood Initiative – www.kidsmatter.edu.au 💭

Play is one of the most powerful ways your premmie learns about the world. 🌍 Whether through toys, movement, or simple interaction with you, every moment of play is a building block for their future development. Enjoy these special early months of discovery and connection! ❤️