Context:
During the first six months of a baby’s life, their brain development and learning capacity progress rapidly. Engaging in enrichment activities during this crucial period is vital to lay a strong foundation for their future growth. However, parents may face challenges in recognizing the significance of these activities and may not prioritize them in their daily routines. Early experiences stimulate cognitive, social, and emotional skills, enabling babies to explore and learn actively. By promoting early interaction and enrichment, parents can optimize their child’s growth potential and create a nurturing environment for lifelong success.

Purpose:
The ‘Enrichment Activities Card’ aims to promote a child’s comprehensive development during their formative years. It emphasizes the significance of age-appropriate activities that stimulate cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. For babies below 6 months, the card suggests nurturing practices such as gentle massaging, stretching, and exercising, along with daily play and attentive responses to their needs. Encouraging interactive communication with the baby in their own voice and language is also highlighted, along with visual stimulation through colourful moving toys. By following these enriching activities, parents can support their child’s timely and holistic growth and lay a strong foundation for future success.

Target Groups:
Parents of 0-2-year-old children, Pregnant women, other caregivers in the family

Key Messages:
Nurturing a baby’s growth from the start with stimulating activities can foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills for a bright future.

Duration: 
2 minutes

Required Resources:
Enrichment Activities Card (For Babies up to 6 months old) 

How to Use:
Facilitators can use the ‘Enrichment Activities Card’ during household visits or group sessions to sensitize parents about the importance of early enrichment for babies under 6 months. Showcasing various activities listed on the card, they can encourage parents to engage in interactive play, respond to the baby’s cues, and create a loving environment for optimal development. Facilitators can guide how to incorporate these activities into the daily routine, emphasizing the positive impact on the child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. They can also guide parents to explore the enrichment activity section in the new Mother & Child Protection card (MCP card) for further information.