September 30, 2026

What Do I Do With My Baby All Day? 5 Simple Ways to Play

Once the feeding, diaper changes, and naps are handled, it can be easy to wonder how to fill the rest of the day with your baby. The truth is, play does not need to be elaborate to be meaningful. For babies around 6–12 months, simple activities like talking, peekaboo, sharing books, reaching for toys, and exploring objects can create valuable moments of connection and learning. By following your baby’s cues and keeping things simple, everyday routines can become opportunities to play, connect, and grow together.

You’ve fed your baby, changed the diaper, and put the laundry in. Now your baby is looking at you as if to say, “What’s next?” You do not need a packed activity schedule or a cart full of toys. For babies around 6–12 months, a few simple games can turn an ordinary moment into a chance to connect. Pick the ideas that fit what your baby can comfortably do today.

5 Simple Ways to Play

‍1. Have a tiny conversation

When your baby makes a sound, answer with that sound or a simple word. Then pause. Give them a turn to look, smile, or make another noise. Try it while getting dressed: “Sock on! Now the other sock

2. Play peekaboo with your hands

Cover your face with your hands, uncover it, and say hello. Pause to see how your baby responds. Keep it gentle and follow their interest. The CDC includes peekaboo and taking turns among its play ideas for babies around 9 months.

3. Explore one page together

Open a sturdy board book and point to a picture. Name the animal, make its sound, or talk about the colors. You can linger on a favorite page without finishing the story. Looking and talking together counts as sharing a book.

4. Make room for reaching

On a clear, safe floor space, offer an age-appropriate toy within reach. Let your baby explore in a position they can manage comfortably. Stay close and enjoy what catches their attention. There is no need to make them sit, crawl, or stand before they are ready.

5. Try “in” and “out”

For an older baby who can sit comfortably, place a few large, baby-safe toys in a shallow container. Show how to take one out and put it back. Narrate the action: “Out comes the ball!” Use items with no small or loose parts, and supervise throughout.

Peekabo play, Baby & Toddler Time event Lacthed Support, Dad reading a book with baby

Let your baby set the pace

If your baby turns away, fusses, or seems tired, take a break. You can repeat a favorite game another day. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers more simple play ideas by age.

These are play suggestions, not a test of development. If you are worried about a skill or your baby loses a skill they once had, talk with their healthcare provider.

Save one idea to try today. For more parenting support, explore Latched Support’s Parenting Program.

Want to turn some of these simple play ideas into a shared experience?

Latched Support’s Baby & Toddler Time brings families together for interactive activities, social connection, and age-appropriate play in a safe, welcoming space. It is a free event for infants, toddlers, and their parents, and a great opportunity to enjoy time with your little one while connecting with other families.
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Baby & Toddler Time is offered every month, so be sure to follow Latched Support on social media and check our Eventbrite page for upcoming dates and registration details.

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