Exercise with Your Baby

Marie Feldman, RD

Published May 08, 2013

Physical activity is important during every stage of life, even infancy. Activity can encourage rolling over, crawling and walking, as well as cognitive development, and can lead to a preference for active play.

Try these activities to get your child moving:

• Spend part of each day with active baby games.
• Hold playtime on the floor and help your infant explore his or her surroundings.
• Join a parent-infant play group.
• Choose activities that allow movement of arms, legs, hands and feet.

Remember, always avoid rough play and consider talking to your child care provider about how much time your infant should spend moving.