The future happiness of your baby starts with one baby game; do you know it?

By Anat Furstenberg
BabyPillars·3 min read

The Old Baby Game That Still Works!
The future happiness of your baby starts with one little game, do you know it? Sounds impossible, right? You don’t believe me, right? Well, this video from Ted Talks presented here will prove to you it’s true and possible:
Well, it’s Peekaboo!
From an early age, infants and young toddlers are drawn to games like Peekaboo. It allows them to socialize with adults while also learning about the permanence of objects. Children can also practice their sense of humor and gross motor abilities while playing this game.
A simple baby game of Peekaboo can be very beneficial to an infant. It gives children the fundamental skill of object permanence, which teaches them that even if they can't see your eyes, nose, or mouth, they are still present. This classic game also teaches infants how to use their arms and hands to emulate the adult in the game by bringing them up to their faces.
Peekaboo, an old favorite, is still one of the best baby games ever devised. Why? Peekaboo engages a baby's senses, improves gross motor abilities, improves visual tracking, promotes social development, and, most importantly, tickles her sense of humor. Peekaboo also teaches object permanence, or the idea that something exists even if she can't see it (like your smiling face).
When can a baby start playing Peekaboo? Peekaboo can be played with newborns and gets more complicated as your child gets older. At roughly 4 months of age, children grasp the notion of Object Permanence, but even a 1-month-old will enjoy the eye contact and parental engagement that a game of Peekaboo gives.

This also allows adults to do something foolish and amusing with the infant, eliciting small bursts of laughter from the child. Although there are electronic toys on the market that play Peekaboo with youngsters, as well as books and puzzles that include the same principles, the classic game requires no resources.
The Advantages of a Peekaboo Baby Game: Peekaboo teaches Object Permanence in a BIG way. What is the definition of Object Permanence? Humans aren't born knowing that people, places, and things exist despite their inability to be seen, smelled, tasted, or touched. When a baby's caregiver leaves the room, it's one of the most common reasons for them to get unhappy or worried.
This game not only teaches skills, but it also functions as an excellent "distraction" tool for newborns who are weary, grumpy, or angry. Infants will become diverted from their unhappiness and participate in if you play this game with a cheerful voice, which will often cheer them up!
Want to go deeper?
Get the full development system for your baby
Week-by-week guidance, milestone tracking, and expert video classes, all in one place.
See Plans & Pricingarrow_forwardYou May Also Like

6 Month Old Baby Activities And Developmental Milestones
Fostering Early Development: A Guide to 6-Month-Old Baby Activities.\nDiscover the foundations of your 6-month-old's growth journey. Learn how pivotal early development is, and why building a strong bond with your baby matters. Explore the keys to creating a safe, stimulating environment and the importance of routine. Find out why parental support and self-care are essential for a fulfilling parenting experience.
Read Morearrow_forward
Your Ultimate Guide: Activities for 3 Month Old Infants
Introduction to activities for 3-month-olds: Explore 29 creative ways to play and learn with your baby during their critical early months. From sensory playtime to heartwarming cuddles, each activity fosters sensory development and strengthens your bond. Adapt activities to your baby's unique pace and preferences, always prioritizing safety and comfort. Cherish these early moments of discovery.
Read Morearrow_forward
Your 3 Month Old Baby Activities And Developmental Milestones
Fostering Your 3-Month-Old's Growth: Activities & Milestones\nAt 3 months, your baby enters a world of swift development. Discover how early engagement bolsters the parent-child bond, language skills, and physical growth. Explore sensory play's role in cognitive and emotional development through texture, color, and sound. Embrace music and movement for brain stimulation and emotional expression. Join our journey in nurturing your baby's growth.
Read Morearrow_forward