No special toys needed

Baby activities by age: newborn to 12 months

The best activity is one your baby can enjoy at their current stage. Start with one short idea, follow their cues, and stop when they turn away or fuss.

Looking for the app?

Bloomie is an iPhone app with 120+ age-matched play ideas, short instructions and a fresh plan for your baby's exact week. The examples below are free to use on this page.

Newborn: simple activities to try

Chest-to-Chest Tummy Time

About 3 minutes · tummy time

Recline comfortably on the sofa or bed with your head propped up.

Blanket Tummy Time Basics

About 5 minutes · tummy time

Spread a firm blanket on the floor in a safe, clear spot.

Lap Tummy Time

About 4 minutes · tummy time

Sit on a chair or sofa with your knees together.

3 months: simple activities to try

Blanket Tummy Time Basics

About 5 minutes · tummy time

Spread a firm blanket on the floor in a safe, clear spot.

Lap Tummy Time

About 4 minutes · tummy time

Sit on a chair or sofa with your knees together.

Tummy Time Mirror Peek

About 6 minutes · tummy time

Place an unbreakable baby mirror upright on the floor.

6 months: simple activities to try

Toy Reach Challenge

About 8 minutes · tummy time

Set your baby up in tummy time on a firm mat.

Circle Time Toy Track

About 10 minutes · tummy time

Place your baby on their tummy on a play mat.

Floating Scarf Show

About 5 minutes · sensory

Lay your baby on their back on a play mat.

9 months: simple activities to try

Classic Peekaboo

About 5 minutes · social

Sit facing your baby so they can see your face clearly.

Blanket Peekaboo

About 5 minutes · cognitive

Drape a light muslin briefly over your own head.

Hide the Toy Under a Cup

About 5 minutes · cognitive

Show your baby a favourite toy, then slowly cover it with an upturned cup while they watch.

12 months: simple activities to try

Hide the Toy Under a Cup

About 5 minutes · cognitive

Show your baby a favourite toy, then slowly cover it with an upturned cup while they watch.

DIY Object Permanence Box

About 10 minutes · cognitive

Cut a fist-sized hole in the top of a sturdy box and tape any sharp edges.

Cup Stacking & Nesting

About 10 minutes · motor

Build a little tower of cups while they watch.

How to choose the right activity

Want the activity plan for this exact week?

Get 120+ guided activities in the Bloomie iPhone app, matched to your baby's age and designed for things you already have at home.

Download the Bloomie iPhone app
Get the exact-week planApp Store