The Importance and Purpose of Infant Texture Play

Baby D is 11 weeks old today, which is the perfect age to engage in texture play time.

Luckily for him, he has an older sister who enjoys searching around the house for things to touch him.  We discussed stroking him gently in safe places such as his arms, legs, and occasionally his cheeks.  I also asked her to only do this when Momma or Daddy says it's allowed.

The sense of touch is the first sense to develop in the womb.  Interestingly, it will also be the last sense to diminish in our old age.

Because of this, it is the primary way that babies learn and socialize.  Kisses, hugs, and cuddles are all sensory ways that babies bond with their families, driven primarily by touch, but also incorporating smell, sight, and sound. (And with eventual open mouthed baby kisses even taste!)

Touch helps babies learn about the environment around them as well as who they are as an individual in space and time.

Giving D different textures to explore will also encourage him to start reaching for and grasping objects which is the next physical milestone on the horizon.

I am laying him down for tummy time on varying textures.  We've tried blankets in a variety of materials, different carpets and rugs, and some of E's interesting dress up clothes!  We also sandwich him between two fabrics to let him practice kicking.