What to do with your baby in the afternoon

In the last post we looked at activities you can do with your baby during the morning, and now let’s move on to the afternoon.

* baby schedule60 minute household tasks - put your baby in a front pack baby carrier and carry her with you as you wash dishes, start laundry, or pick-up. This allows your baby to be close to you, and still allows you to have two hands free to accomplish tasks.
* 30 minute highchair playtime - while you prepare lunch let your baby sit in her highchair, or if she’s still small, her bouncy or a baby swing. Give her a board book, or another small baby toy to entertain her.
* 60 - 120 nap-time - put your little one down before she falls asleep. If she’s drowsy, it’s good to let her chill out alone before she takes her afternoon nap, because it teaches her to settle some on her own, and all of us need alone down time. You could take a nap now too, or have some time to read or relax.
* 30 - 60 minute afternoon walk - even if you had a morning walk, getting outside and moving again is still a good plan.
* 30 minute bold activity - try a new activity such as introducing a new toy, play music, sing, dance, or paint with your baby.
* 60 minute solo play - your baby does need some solo awake time. Prop your baby up on a Boppy pillow, or place her in an activity center or playpen, put on some calm music, place toys within easy reach, and let her play on her own for a while