Playing house – Baby

Babies love exploring and playing with everyday household things.

Did you know?

First, babies will grasp at and put everything in their mouths. Then they will examine, twist, turn, shake and bang items; before starting to imitate what they have seen the item used for e.g. try to brush hair with a brush, put a cup or spoon to the mouth or hold a phone to their ear to “talk”.

Add language

Provide the words that go with the items or actions they are focused on.

Other development

Playing with everyday items helps baby to develop their eye hand coordination and to use both sides of their body together.

Variations

Once they are able to sit up, babies love playing with pots and pans, and kitchen plastic ware. Having an accessible cupboard or drawer with safe kitchenware can keep baby happily occupied, especially when you are busy in the kitchen.

Safety

Consider your home and choose where baby is safe to play while you are cooking.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how playing house can be fun for toddlers, children and playgroups.

Activities listed under “baby” are suitable for children under 12 months. This age is largely about babies exploring their own bodies and the world around them from the safety of a close relationship with their caregiver.